Enzyme-Catalyzed Reactions Using Enzymes Immobilized on Non-spherical Particles

Author

Alexander D. Redfearn, University of New Hampshire, DurhamFollow

Date of Award

2017

Project Type

Senior Honors Thesis

College or School

CEPS

Department

Chemical Engineering

First Advisor

Nivedita Gupta

Abstract

Modern and industrial chemical reactions often utilize enzyme-catalyzed reactions to increase product yields. Given the high cost of enzymes it is desirable to preserve the activity of the enzymes and reuse them several times. In this study, I explored the possibility of immobilizing enzymes on custom-made non-spherical SU-8 microparticles to conduct enzyme-catalyzed reactions in flow reactors. The decomposition of hydrogen peroxide using bovine liver catalase was studied due to its well-understood enzyme kinetics. Soft lithography techniques were used to synthesize prismatic SU-8 microparticles. I will discuss the progress that has been made in immobilizing the enzyme on the particle surface and conducting the enzyme-catalyzed decomposition reaction.

Recommended Citation

Redfearn, Alexander D., "Enzyme-Catalyzed Reactions Using Enzymes Immobilized on Non-spherical Particles" (2017). Honors Theses and Capstones. 333.
https://scholars.unh.edu/honors/333