Three-stage fermentation tank fermentation of seeds

### Tonic Acid Fermentation Process

Tonic acid production involves a fermentation process that can be divided into three key stages:

1. **Bacterial Growth Stage**:

- The initial phase focuses on the growth and multiplication of the bacterial culture after transplantation into the fermenter.

2. **Antibiotic Product Synthesis Stage**:

- Once bacterial growth stabilizes, the focus shifts to synthesizing the target product, tonic acid.

- To maximize yield, appropriate fermentation media and culture conditions are crucial. Sugar supplementation during this stage helps prolong the synthesis phase.

3. **Bacterial Autolysis Stage**:

- As nutrients deplete and metabolic by-products accumulate, bacterial autolysis begins.

- This phase marks the end of fermentation, and the process should be stopped promptly to prevent product degradation and extraction challenges.

#### Tertiary Fermentation Process:

- After secondary fermentation, the seed liquid is transferred to the tertiary fermentation tank using pressure differential.

- Tertiary fermentation involves:

- Regular feeding to sustain bacterial activity.

- Occasional addition of disinfectants and ammonia for pH adjustment.

- Monitoring through a sight glass, with a flushing device for maintenance.

- Cooling via a shell-and-tube heat exchanger using cooling water.

By optimizing each stage and ensuring proper equipment maintenance, the fermentation process can achieve high yields of tonic acid while maintaining product quality.