Reactors for flow biocatalysis: classification, performance, and prospects

Abstract

Flow biocatalysis has emerged as a promising alternative to conventional batch processes, offering improved energy efficiency, enhanced reaction control, and reduced waste generation. This review presents recent advances in flow biocatalysis, with a focus on system design, enzyme handling strategies, and catalytic performance. Based on enzyme retention, these systems are broadly categorized into flow biocatalysis using free enzymes, where enzymes are co-eluted with the product, and flow biocatalysis using immobilized enzymes, where enzymes are immobilized within the reactor. The latter are further divided into wall-coated and packed systems, including multilayered coatings, grafted surfaces, and monolithic structures. Representative applications in pharmaceutical synthesis, fine chemicals, and environmental remediation are discussed to illustrate the practical impact of these technologies. Finally, future perspectives are outlined, highlighting the potential of carrier material innovation, reactor design optimization, and data-driven process control to further drive the development of flow biocatalysis.