An integrated process for enzymatic catalysis allowing product recovery and enzyme reuse by applying thermoreversible aqueous biphasic systems

Abstract

Herein, thermoreversible aqueous biphasic systems (ABS) composed of ammonium-based zwitterions (ZIs) and polymers are disclosed to act as integrated bioreaction–separation processes. The biocatalytic reaction involving laccase occurs in homogeneous media, after which small changes in temperature induce the formation of two phases and the complete separation of the enzyme from the products in a single-step. These systems also allow the recovery and reuse of the enzyme, along with the ZI-rich phase, contributing towards the development of sustainable biocatalytic processes.