Batch assays for the production of medium-chain fatty acids

In this study, different batch experiments were carried out to understand the influence of the substrates used as electron donors and acceptors for the production of medium-chain fatty acids through chain elongation. Different electron donors, such as lactic acid and ethanol, were studied; and electron acceptors: acetic and butyric acids. The molar ratio between donor and acceptor was also studied, as well as how single addition or pulse addition of the substrates influenced the production of these acids. Additionally, a study of the microbial flora present in each experiment was performed to understand the transformation of each substrate into the products of interest.