Modular Biofilm Reactors to Convert Waste-Based Feedstocks to Vitamin A
Members: Capra Biosciences, Boston University, Next Rung Technology
Year launched: 2023
Capra Biosciences, Inc., Boston University and Next Rung Technologies are partnering to advance critical bioreactor automation, next-gen sensing, and novel continuous-flow separation methods to scale-up Capra’s biofilm reactors into an automated pilot plant.
Capra’s unique approach to biomanufacturing centers on their continuous flow bioreactor enabled by their biofilm-forming platform organism and proprietary extraction technologies. The modular reactor design enables distributed manufacturing from locally sourced waste-based feedstocks with significantly reduced capital costs compared to chemical biomanufacturing using traditional fermentation. Bioreactors capable of distributed chemical manufacturing using locally-sourced carbon feedstocks would enable an entirely domestic supply chain helping to avoid current global transit bottlenecks and improve U.S. autonomy and defense – all while reducing negative climate impact. However, new bioreactor support technologies such as distributed sensors, advanced membrane separation, predictive models, and secure automation are critical to realize this vision. This project will advance these support technologies and thereby accelerate Capra’s timeline to reach pilot-plant scale and prove their technology under real-world conditions.
Researchers at Boston University will provide automated culture platforms to accelerate biological optimization tools that will be made available to the broader community. They will also develop next- gen wireless sensors to allow secure monitoring and control of reactor technologies. Researchers at Next Rung will apply their scaling expertise to pilot plant design. In 18 months, Capra will demonstrate an automated biofilm reactor plant capable of continuous operation.
Funding source: Schmidt Futures Bioreactor Innovation Project Call
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