Biocatalytic membrane reactors support

In order to assess the potential applications of these new nitrilases in biocatalytic processes, data on their operational stabiUty were required. To this end, we investigated the kinetic behavior of enzymes from F. solani and A. niger either immo-biUzed on solid supports or retained in stirred ultrafiltration membrane reactors in continuous experiments. 

Immobilization is the process of adhering biocatalysts (isolated enzymes or whole cells) to a solid support. The solid support can be an organic or inorganic material, such as derivatized cellulose or glass, ceramics, metallic oxides, and a membrane. Immobilized biocatalysts offer several potential advantages over soluble biocatalysts, such as easier separation of the biocatalysts from the products, higher stability of the biocatalyst, and more flexible reactor configurations. In addition, there is no need for continuous replacement of the biocatalysts. As a result, immobilized biocatalysts are now employed in many biocatalytic processes. 

The development of hollow fibers with diameters down to about 100 microns makes possible "tube-and-shell" reactors with a high surface-to-volume ratio. Biocatalytic reactors can segregate enzymes or cells either within the hollow fiber lumen,46 within the shell surrounding the outer surface of the fibers,44 45 57-59 or within the porous membrane support.42 45 47 53... 

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