Patent ID: 6329196
Filing Date: 2001-12-11
Classification: C02F,C12M,C12N

Abstract:
Apparatus for enhancing a biological process, said apparatus comprising a reaction vessel for containing a fluid medium of first and second fluid media, a porous matrix system comprises a cylindrical disc of foam divided into a plurality of foam sectors by means of a plurality of impervious septa, compressing means comprising an escapement catch for arresting movement of a first septum, drive means for driving a second septum toward the first septum to compress the foam therebetween, means for applying a series of controlled compressive forces to a region of said porous matrix system, each compressive force applied to a foam sector being releasable and effective to extrude fluid but not significant biomass contained in the porous matrix system, means for controllably expanding the region of the porous matrix system in the fluid medium following release of a compressive force, and means for transferring the region of porous matrix system from one fluid medium to the other between repeated expanding steps with the compressive force being applied substantially in the direction of travel of the region of foam.