Future Research

        In order to maximize the potential of the bioreactor and assess its full capability, further research must be conducted. It would be beneficial to employ a different test in lieu of Folin’s reagent in order to determine whether or not the bacteria were metabolizing the toluene. In addition, to test and understand how the bioreactor functions and what it is fully capable of, it must actually be put to use with bacteria. Though the process was simulated in a research lab setting using water, glucose, and yeast, it would be most beneficial to apply it to the P. putida, and to do this accordingly, the batch reactor would be assembled and conditions of temperature, time of exposure, carbon dioxide, and dissolved oxygen would be closely monitored throughout via Vernier Logger Pro software and changed accordingly. With a longer time period and greater funding, higher quality and better functioning bioreactors could be developed.