Lignocellulose is an abundant, renewable, and attractive feedstock for the production of fuels and value-added chemicals. One of the challenges is the efficient conversion of lignocellulose into sugars. Hydrolysis of lignocellulose by cellulase and cellobiase allows mild operating condition and low formation of inhibitory by-products. However, high enzyme cost is the main barrier for its industrial application. We have been working on developing recyclable immobilized enzymes to tackle the challenges. Nano-size PAAc-co-Aam was prepared as upper critical solution temperature polymer, functionalized with epoxy group, and applied for enzyme immobilization for the first time. Cellulase and cellobiase were immobilized on nano-size temperature sensitive polymer with high enzyme loading (38 mg/g support for cellulase, 35 mg/g support for cellobiase), high immobilization efficiency (100% for cellulase, 80% for cellobiase), and high enzyme activity (90% for cellulase, 75% for cellobiase). These nanobiocatalysts were used at 50?C to hydrolyze different type of cellulose (filter paper and PEFB), giving high yield of glucose. The catalysts were easily recovered by lowering temperature to 4oC, followed by centrifugation. After 8 times of recycling, the catalysts retained 80% of its original productivity. Our new technology provides an efficient way for the hydrolysis of cellulose to glucose.

Active, stable, and separatable nanobiocatalyst <i>via</i> temperature change: Efficient hydrolysis of cellulose

247th National Meeting (2014)

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.

Active, stable, and separatable nanobiocatalyst via temperature change: Efficient hydrolysis of cellulose