Enhancing cellulase performance through nanomaterials and MOFs: innovations and applications

Cellulase is widely utilized in industries such as biofuel production, food processing, textiles, and waste management due to its catalytic efficiency in breaking down cellulose. However, its industrial application is limited by instability under harsh conditions. This review examines innovative methodologies for enhancing cellulase performance through immobilization on nanomaterials, including magnetic nanoparticles, carbon-based nanomaterials, and metal-organic frameworks (MOFs). Immobilization techniques, such as adsorption, covalent bonding, and cross-linking, have been shown to significantly improve cellulase stability, activity, and reusability. Key findings include a threefold increase in catalytic efficiency when cellulase is immobilized on magnetic nanoparticles, alongside notable enhancements in thermal stability when employing MOF composites. Despite these advancements, challenges such as enzyme leakage, material costs, and scalability remain. Future opportunities lie in developing more cost-effective, scalable immobilization strategies, with interdisciplinary approaches offering the potential to further enhance enzyme efficiency across diverse application.