The scaled-up operation depicted in Fig. 2 is modeled afterthe bench-top process developed in our laboratory [3].Eight fermenters, with a total fermentation system volumeof 19,831 m3, were used in the estimate, which included anallowance of 11 % for headspace. This is based on a totalcycle time of 7 days for each batch fermentation, whichincludes 5 days for the actual fermentation with theremaining 2 days being allocated to loading and unloading,clean out and sterilization. A fermentation cost of US$170/m3 fermentation volume was used to estimate the equipmentcost of the fermentation system. This value was basedon previous studies on large-scale fermentation systemsand from inputs received from multiple engineering firmsand equipment suppliers [32]. Included in this cost areallowances for fermenter cleaning systems, the seed fermentationsystem and fermentation agitation and temperaturecontrol equipment.