Application of kinetic models in dark fermentative hydrogen production–A critical review

Kinetic modeling could be viewed as an important step in developing a bioprocess, since models can be used in process control, reducing costs and optimizing processes. In the present study, the application of kinetic models in dark fermentative hydrogen production has been investigated. A wide variety of kinetic models are addressed and compared regarding their accuracy to fit the data. This literature survey indicates that the modified Gompertz was extensively used to describe the production of hydrogen, organic acids and alcohols, substrate degradation, and biomass growth. The development of kinetic models can assist researchers to identify the most important variables, facilitate future research, and maximize hydrogen production.