Optimization parameters for lipase immobilization: effects of time, temperature and cross-linker concentration

Abstract

In view of the shortcomings associated with the chemical route to synthesize butyl butyrate viz. harsh reaction conditions, use of acid catalyst and liberation of unwanted by-products, the development of an alternative biotechnological technique by immobilizing Candida rugosa lipase (CRL) onto support has been proposed and may prove beneficial. In this study, nanocellulose (NC) was successfully extracted from oil palm fronds leaves (OPFL) by combination of different chemical treatments such as bleaching, alkaline treatment and acid hydrolysis. The extracted NC was used as nano-filler in the development of stable chitosan (CS)/NC support to covalently immobilize CRL. The immobilization efficacy of CRL onto CS/NC support was evaluated to obtain the optimum conditions for immobilization time, temperature and concentration of cross-linker. The developed CRL-CS/NC may prove advantageous and appears to be a promising substitute to the homogenous acid catalyst as it is more environmental friendly for the synthesis of butyl butyrate.