Heterogeneous enzymatic catalysts: comparing their efficiency in the production of biodiesel from alternative oils

Abstract

In this study, four heterogeneous enzymatic catalysts were synthesized: three from the immobilization of Pseudomonas fluorescens lipase (LPf) on SBA-15, Ca/SBA-15, and Na / SBA-15, and one using the one-step coprecipitation technique, called LOBE (Low Ordered Biosilicificated Enzyme). The physicochemical properties of these materials were determined by small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) and Fourier Transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). The biocatalysts activity was evaluated in the production of biodiesel with different oily raw materials. It was possible to infer from these results that besides enzyme-metal-support synergistic effect (LPf/Ca/SBA-15 or LPf/Na/SBA-15), confinement effects influence the substrates diffusion or mass transfer depending on the pore, channel, or cavity architecture, determining the catalytic efficiency. While the SBA-15 material presents one-dimensional channels, the LOBE biocatalyst has interconnected three-dimensional cavities that favor the mixing of reactant phases (oil alcohol) and interaction with active sites. This characteristic would increase the specific activity of the LOBE biocatalyst approximately five times concerningFil: Carrillo, Germán. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnica. Universidad Tecnológica Nacional. Facultad Regional Córdoba. Centro de Investigación y Tecnología Química; Argentina.