An air-lift biofilm reactor for the production of γ-decalactones by Yarrowia lipolytica

Decalactones are interesting flavouring compounds that can be produced from ricinoleic acid. In this study, the production of lactones in biofilms using Yarrowia lipolytica is investigated. The hydrophobia of cells increased for increased aeration rates resulting in higher adhesion when the reactor wall was hydrophobic (plastic). To increase adhesion, sheets of methyl-polymethacrylate (PMMA) were added in the reactor and the production of lactones increased with the surface of plastic added, reaching 850 mg/L of 3-hydroxy-γ-decalactone for 60 cm2. In an Airlift bioreactor made of PMMA, biofilms were present at the top of the reactor for increased aeration. In the meantime, a metabolic shift…