Application of pareto-optimal front as an option to desirability function for the optimization of a microbiological process

Abstract

Two multiple response optimization methodologies were applied and compared to obtain an optimum combination medium formulation for culturing the yeast Rhodotorula graminis: (1) desirability function, and (2) pareto-optimal front by means of genetic algorithms (POF-GA). The concentration of microbial lipids, a raw material for the production of biodiesel, was modelled by the response surface methodology and then maximized through the application of a methodology based in genetic algorithms. The results obtained by applying POF-GA (one of the first times this approach was applied to a microbiological process) were confirmed by using the well-known Derringer's desirability function and by carrying out independent experiments. Then, it was verified that POF-GA is a viable option to be applied in biotechnological processes and that molasses may be employed as a source for culture media employed to produce microbial lipids, representing important economical savings since molasses is a raw material from sugarcane industrialization.