Continuous-flow CvFAP photodecarboxylation of palmitic acid under environmentally friendly conditions

The fatty acid photodecarboxylase from Chlorella variabilis NC64A (CvFAP) promotes the elimination of CO2 from fatty acids (C-n) producing the corresponding hydrocarbon ((Cn-1)). Therefore, this enzyme is of great biotechno-logical interest since it can be used in alternative biofuel production routes matching the concept of green chemistry. However, due to its recent discovery, this reaction still requires optimizations, which was the focus of the present work together with the application of continuous flow system. The results in batch reactors showed the importance of using high power LED lamps (300 W) to reduce the reaction time for full conversion (30 min, > 99%). In another approach, a continuous flow system demonstrated high potential, as it enabled full conversion with a half concentration of enzyme extract in a very short residence time of 15 min. Furthermore, the use of less expensive and sustainable light sources, not previously reported for reactions with CvFAP, were evaluated with full conversion (> 99%) after 1 h for continuous flow reactions using 300 W common white LED lamp and based preliminary batch reactions investigations using direct sunlight. Thus, important advances and new perspectives for CvFAP photodecarboxylation reactions could be achieved with the present report.

Automated summary

The fatty acid photodecarboxylase from Chlorella variabilis NC64A (CvFAP) has the potential to be used in green chemistry for alternative biofuel production. This study focused on optimizing the reaction and applying a continuous flow system. The results showed that using high power LED lamps reduced reaction time and continuous flow system achieved full conversion in a short residence time. Furthermore, using less expensive and sustainable light sources, not previously reported, also achieved full conversion. This study provides important advances and new perspectives for CvFAP photodecarboxylation reactions.