Abstract
The use of immobilized enzymes during saccharification of lignocelluloses enables the continuous process of enzymatic hydrolysis and repeatable use of enzyme, resulting in reduced operational cost. Novel nano-biocarriers were developed by layer-by-layer deposition of carbon nanotube (CNT) on the foam structures, and their efficiency for enzyme immobilization was demonstrated with cellulase and β-glucosidase. A three-fold enhancement was achieved in the activity of cellulase immobilized on CNT coated polyurethane foam. In addition, both cellulase and β-glucosidase immobilized on the CNT-foam showed much better storage stability and operational stability than the ones immobilized on the commercial biocarrier (Celite), which is critical for a continuous operation. CNT coated monolith was also developed as a biocarrier, offering high surface area and geometric stability. These nano-biocarriers are promising candidates for the efficient saccharification of biomass and to reduce carbon footprint and cost of the equipment.
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We would like to thank the funding support from the Department of Energy Small Business Innovation and Strategies Program (DE-FG02-07ER84872), the Michigan University Research Corridor (URC), and the Michigan Initiative for Innovation and Entrepreneurship.
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Lu, J., Weerasiri, R.R. & Lee, I. Carbon nanotubes tuned foam structures as novel nanostructured biocarriers for lignocellulose hydrolysis. Biotechnol Lett 35, 181–188 (2013). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10529-012-1066-5
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10529-012-1066-5