Biphasic mini-reactor for characterization of biocatalyst performance

Anne van den Wittenboer (1) , Thomas Schmidt (1) , Pia Müller (2) , Marion Bettina Ansorge-Schumacher (3) , Lasse Greiner (2)

1 Department of Biotechnology
2 Institut für Technische und Makromolekulare Chemie
3 Institute of Chemistry, Enzyme Technology

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.

Mots clés: Life Sciences

Anne van den Wittenboer, Thomas Schmidt, Pia Müller, Marion Bettina Ansorge-Schumacher, Lasse Greiner. Biphasic mini-reactor for characterization of biocatalyst performance. Biotechnology Journal, 2009, 4 (1), pp.44-n/a. ⟨10.1002/biot.200800271⟩. ⟨hal-00477775⟩