RESUMEN
Background: Inspired by structural hierarchies and the related excellent mechanical properties of biological materials, we created a smoothly graded micro- to nanoporous structure from a thermoplastic polymer. Results: The viscoelastic properties for the different pore sizes were investigated in the glassy regime by dynamic flat-punch indentation. Interestingly, the storage modulus was observed to increase with increasing pore-area fraction. Conclusion: This outcome appears counterintuitive at first sight, but can be rationalized by an increase of the pore wall thickness as determined by our quantitative analysis of the pore structure. Therefore, our approach represents a non-chemical way to tune the elastic properties and their local variation for a broad range of polymers by adjusting the pore size gradient.
RESUMEN
An intensification of pharmaceutical protein production processes can be achieved by the integration of unit operations and application of recurring sequences of all biochemical process steps. Within optimization procedures each individual step as well as the overall process has to be in the focus of scientific interest. This paper includes a description of the development of a fully automated production plant, starting with a two step upstream followed by a four step downstream line, including cell clarification, broth cleaning with microfiltration, product concentration with ultrafiltration and purification with column chromatography. Recursive production strategies are developed where a cell breeding, the protein production and the whole downstream is operated in series but also in parallel, each main operation shifted by one day. The quality and reproducibility of the recursive protein expression is monitored on-line by Golden Batch and this is controlled by Model Predictive Multivariate Control (MPMC). As a demonstration process the production of potential Malaria vaccines with Pichia pastoris is under investigation.