(469e) Immobilization and Catalytic Activity of Lipase on ModifiEd MWCNT for Oily Wastewater Treatment

We report here on the results of a study of immobilization of Lipase enzyme from Candida Rugosa on Multiwall Carbon Nanotubes (MWCNT) locally produced in a Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD) reactor. Covalent bonds was formed between the enzyme and MWCNTs using organic cross linkers (NHS and EDC).  FTIR results confirmed the covalent binding of the amide functional group of the lipase molecules onto the surface of MWCNT. The produced carbon nanotubes proved to be a good matrix for the lipase loading and immobilization. TGA results and calculations confirmed that 30% wt% of the enzyme was successfully attached to the functionalized MWCNTs. The nanocomposite material revealed high thermal stability and good hydrophobic characteristics which is considered an important property for commercial applications. Findings revealed higher than generally reported biological activity of the protein was successfully retained. Results confirmed that Immobilized lipase on MWCNTs present an excellent opportunity for treatment of oily wastewater. Teste with synthetic water/oil emulsion resulted with oil degradation reached up to 98%.