Applications of Fluidized Bed Reactors in Biocatalysis

Area of Science:

• Biocatalysis and Biochemical Engineering
• Chemical Reaction Engineering

Background:

• Fluidized bed reactors (FBRs) integrate stirred tank and continuous tubular reactor features, enabling efficient enzymatic reactions with immobilized enzymes.
• FBRs exhibit high transfer capacity and versatility, suitable for both liquid and gaseous phase applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and synthesize existing literature on the applications of fluidized bed reactors in biocatalysis.
• To highlight the advantages and common uses of FBRs in enzymatic processes.
• To discuss future prospects and innovations in FBR technology for biocatalysis.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of previous contributions on fluidized bed reactor applications in biocatalysis.
• Analysis of enzyme immobilization techniques and support materials used in FBRs.
• Identification of key enzymes and industrial applications documented in the literature.

Main Results:

• FBRs are extensively used for contaminant degradation, synthesis of cosmetic ingredients, food and pharmaceutical compounds, biolubricants, and biodiesel.
• Laccases, lipases, and proteases immobilized on various supports (methacrylate resins, mesoporous silicas, alginate, chitosan) are commonly employed.
• Enzyme immobilization is crucial for particle suspension, enhancing yields and productivity in FBRs.

Conclusions:

• Fluidized bed reactors are versatile and efficient systems for biocatalysis, particularly with immobilized enzymes.
• Future developments, including magnetic field stabilization and microfluidization, offer significant potential for process intensification and increased efficiency.
• FBRs represent a promising alternative for the development of advanced biocatalytic systems.