Immobilization of enzymes and cells on lignocellulosic materials

The rising activities of global agriculture and forestry industries are producing huge amounts of lignocellulosic waste, which needs to be well recycled. The management of this waste involves environmental, social, economic and political challenges. Lignocellulosics have been commonly used for construction materials and energy production, thus achieving positive social and environmental impacts. Lignocellulosics represent also a promising feedstock for the production of carriers for enzyme and cell immobilization. Immobilization is a technique in which the biocatalyst is fixed on the surface of an insoluble matrix, allowing to recover the biocatalyst after reaction. The support must have specific characteristics such as inertness, physical strength, stability, renewability and low cost. These characteristics are fulfilled by lignocellulosic materials. Here, we review the applications of lignocellulosic biomass for fermentation, remediation of contaminated water and soil, synthesis of solvents and fine chemicals, juices clarification, and production of fructooligosaccharides. Recycling lignocellulosic waste for the immobilization of enzymes and cells allow to reduce environmental issues. Processes using immobilized cells and enzymes give high rates of solvent productivity, of 1.44-1.67 g/Lh, activity retention, around 90%, and stability, above five cycles of reaction.