Premium
Biphasic mini‐reactor for characterization of biocatalyst performance
Author(s) -
van den Wittenboer Anne,
Schmidt Thomas,
Müller Pia,
AnsorgeSchumacher Marion B.,
Greiner Lasse
Publication year - 2009
Publication title -
biotechnology journal
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.144
H-Index - 84
eISSN - 1860-7314
pISSN - 1860-6768
DOI - 10.1002/biot.200800271
Subject(s) - biocatalysis , catalysis , solvent , evaporation , characterization (materials science) , chemical engineering , batch reactor , chemistry , materials science , biochemical engineering , nanotechnology , process engineering , organic chemistry , reaction mechanism , thermodynamics , engineering , physics
Biphasic reaction media are extending the scope of technical biocatalysis. Thorough investigation of the factors affecting catalyst performance under these conditions is of key importance for the successful implementation of catalytic processes. Here, we present a reactor setup suitable for comprehensive systematic characterization and optimization of biocatalyzed reactions in biphasic systems with distinct phases. It is distinguished by small volumes allowing reproducible experimentation with minimum amounts of solvent and catalyst. The interfacial area is kept constant and independent stirring of both phases is allowed in order to minimize superimposing effects. Evaporation of low‐volatile organic solvents is prevented by use of airtight construction. The broad applicability of this mini‐reactor is demonstrated with regard to determination of mass transfer, enzyme productivity, and enzyme stability in both batch and continuous mode.