Figure 6.1 Schematic diagram of a
generic continuous enzymatic
membrane reactor. Possible locations
of the enzyme are shown (in solution,
adsorbed or entrapped). E—enzyme,
S—substrate, P—product,—
membrane.
Table 6.1 The functions of a membrane in a
membrane reactor
Membrane function
enzyme retention and compartmentalisation
solute (substrate, product, cofactor) separation
immobilisation of liquid-liquid interfaces
1983; Furusaki et al., 1990; Bakken et al., 1992; Garcia et al., 1992; Maison & Quinn,
1992). However, and as suggested by Matson and Quinn (1992), the term membrane
reactor should be reserved for those cases where the membrane is not merely a support
for the enzyme, but rather adds its separating characteristics to the process (Table 6.1).
Conventional separation processes usually involve the introduction of either an energy-
separating agent (e.g. distillation) or a mass-separating agent (e.g. extraction). Membrane
separations on the other hand are less complex and more energy efficient than other
conventional separation processes (Gobina et al., 1997).
Enzymatic membrane reactors 147