Mathematisch-Naturwissenschaftliche Fakultät

Institut für Chemie

Fachgebiet: Technische Chemie

Betreuer: Prof. Dr. Udo Kragl



Dipl.-Chem. Vera Zimmermann
(e-mail: vera.zimmermann@uni-rostock.de )

New Strategies for the Optimisation of N-Acetylneuraminic Acid Synthesis

In this work, a model describing the complete enzyme catalysed synthesis of N acetylneuraminic acid (Neu5Ac) consisting of two reaction steps is presented. The model is expedient to predict the reaction course for various initial and feed concentrations and therefore to calculate reaction times and yields. Using the model, an optimisation of reaction conditions in consideration of different targets was performed.

Furthermore, a new method for the purification of Neu5Ac was developed. The extraction system was characterised in detail by equilibrium studies for various conditions. For the extraction a two step mechanism is assumed and the ion exchange at the interface was determined to be the rate limiting step. A kinetic model describing the extraction was developed and combined with the model describing the reaction to simulate the integration of reaction and extraction. The model is feasible to analyse integrated product removal as well as separately operated reaction and extraction.