Solvent-free esterification catalyzed by lipase from Candida antarctica adsorbed on polypropylene powder

MARÍA LAURA FORESTI; MARÍA LUJÁN FERREIRA

Santiago, Chile,

Simposio; 12th International Biotechnology Symposium and Exhibition,; 2004

Lipases catalyze not only hydrolysis reactions but also several synthetic reactions such as esterification, transesterification and aminolysis. The reversal of the original hydrolytic activity is feasible using lipases in organic solvents at low water activity or in solvent-free systems (SFS) only composed by substrates. Supporting the enzyme onto an insoluble material permits easy recovery and reuse of the enzyme, greater stability and the possibility of continuous operation. Adsorption is the most commonly used immobilization method since it is easy to perform, cheap and effective.