Process integration has been one of the most active research fields in Biochemical Engineering over the last decade and it will continue to be so if bioprocessing is to become more rational, efficient and productive. This volume outlines what has been achieved in recent years. Written by experts who have made important contributions to the European Science, Foundation Program on Process Integration in Biochemical Engineering, the volume focuses on the progress made and the major opportunities, and in addition on the limitations and the challenges in bioprocess integration that lie ahead. The concept of bioprocess integration is treated at various levels, including integration at the molecular, biological, bioreactor and plant levels, but also accounting for the integration of separation and mass transfer operations and biology, fluid dynamics and physiology, as well as basic science and process technology.

- Newly updated. Addresses environmental issues as well as applications of thermodynamics to current and alternative energy sources and applications - Answers the most commonly asked questions relating to thermodynamics, such as the difference between entropy and enthalpy and the first name of Maxwell's demon - Precedes each group of related questions with an introductory overview - Emphasizes qualitative understanding - Includes many illustrative materials throughout to reinforce key concepts - Requires no prior background in the subject

Process integration has been one of the most active research fields in Biochemical Engineering over the last decade and it will continue to be so if bioprocessing is to become more rational, efficient and productive. This volume outlines what has been achieved in recent years. Written by experts who have made important contributions to the European Science, Foundation Program on Process Integration in Biochemical Engineering, the volume focuses on the progress made and the major opportunities, and in addition on the limitations and the challenges in bioprocess integration that lie ahead. The concept of bioprocess integration is treated at various levels, including integration at the molecular, biological, bioreactor and plant levels, but also accounting for the integration of separation and mass transfer operations and biology, fluid dynamics and physiology, as well as basic science and process technology.

This book covers the fundamentals of the rapidly growing field of "biothermodynamics," showing how thermodynamics can best be applied to applications and processes in biochemical engineering. It describes the rigorous application of thermodynamics in biochemical engineering to rationalize bioprocess development and obviate a substantial fraction of this need for tedious experimental work. As such, this book will appeal to a diverse group of readers, ranging from students and professors in biochemical engineering, to scientists and engineers, for whom it will be a valuable reference.