The ultimate goal of these Master Theses are database containing geometric models for gas/liquid (G/L) and liquid/liquid (L/L) reactor mixing elements. These geometric models should be characterized via CFD simulations, such that their selection according to predefined synthesis conditions is possible. Additionally, an approximate model that describes the flow (e.g., the mean speed in the device) in these mixing elements should be established.

Based on the results of the CFD simulation studies, advanced G/L and L/L reactor elements will be prepared, and evaluated in the laboratory (this experimental work is not part of the theses). Based on the outcome of these evaluations, additional simulations should be performed, and results should be compared with experimental findings.

The objectives of this work are:

• 
  Performing benchmark simulations of gas/liquid flow and evaluation of the results against literature data (literature survey partially available)

• 
  Evaluation of existing G/L and L/L mixing elements (based on simulation) with respect to their suitability for different flow regimes

• 
  Design of new, advanced G/L and L/L mixing structures to be fed into the model database

• 
  Comparison of the simulation output with experimental data for selected geometries

Start: May 2018
Contact: Stefan Radl (radlnoSpam@tugraz.at, 0316 873 30412)

Perfusion reactors are used to host microbial cells, which are able to produce antibiotics, potent drugs substances for cancer therapy or other active pharmaceutical ingredients. During the reactor’s operation, the produced drug molecules have to be extracted continuously. This is currently done via alternating tangential flow filtration (ATF).
A part of the solution in the reactor is sucked through a fiber filter element with a diaphragm pump. The concentrated cell solution is pumped back in the reactor by the diaphragm and the cell-free filtrate is pumped to the next stage to extract the active pharmaceutical ingredient.

Tasks

• Literature study on the topic of perfusion reactors
• Modelling of the fluid flow through the filter fiber and the filter process
• Study on the influence of the microbial cells and rheological properties of the solution on the filtration process
• Development of suggestions for improvements for the filtration process

We offer

• Opportunity to work on an industrially relevant task
• Contact to a leading pharmaceutical company
• Paid master thesis
• Start of a future career in modelling and simulation

PDF OF THIS MASTER THESIS SOLICITATION

Contact:
Dr. Christian Witz
christian.witz@tugraz.at

Statins are the active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) of many cholesterol lowering drugs. Their structure consists of the typical statin side-chain possessing two chiral alcohols linked to a heterocyclic core. This side-chain can be synthesized from simple and inexpensive starting materials via a two-step aldol condensation catalyzed by an enzyme called DERA (2-deoxyribose-5-phosphate aldolase). The side-chain can either be directly built at the core of the molecule or linked to the heterocyclic core subsequently via a C-C coupling reaction catalyzed by Palladium.

The goal of this work is to investigate the biocatalytic step in this synthetic route. A number of substrates, such as acetaldehyde, chloroacetaldehyd, benzaldehyde and cinnamaldehyde, will be testes as acceptors in the aldol condensation. The obtained product will be characterized and evaluated according to their potential for serving as intermediate in the synthetic route of statins. Further the enzyme (enclosed in E. coli cells) will be immobilized in order to apply it in a continuous process.

The results of this thesis will serve in the development of an integrated multistep process for the synthesis of statins consisting of a biocatalytic and a metal-catalyzed step.

The objectives of this work are:

• Substrate screening in batch
• Immobilization of the enzyme/cells for the application in a continuous process
• Purification and characterization of the products (NMR)

We offer:

• payment according to the FWF-rate (€440/month)
• a comprehensive introduction to the research topic
• access to novel experimental and analytical devices
• individual assistance for an efficient realization of the thesis

Start: March 2018
Contact: Bianca Grabner (b.grabnernoSpam@tugraz.at, 0316 873 30409)

Current trends in paper and pulp production aim on product diversification covering new markets, e.g., fibre-plastic compounds. Separating fibres by length may become a crucial process step in future. Answering to this future need, we developed a novel fractionation device in a collaborative project with industry.

The master student will prepare construction drawings using CAD, preferably SolidWorks. Prior skills from a technical high-school (HTL) are of advantage, but not required. The master student will receive training in the handling of the fractionator, image recording and post-processing with our existing high-speed camera.

We offer

·          high industrial and scientific relevance (i.e., a novel separation process which will be applied in “real-world” trials at a paper mill)

·          bleeding edge high-speed camera equipment and image post-processing routines

·          support from the project team at IPPT and IPZ

·          desk and office space

·          Remuneration: 6 months á 440€.

For details CLICK HERE.