A novel method to evaluate the applicability of time temperature integrators to different temperature profiles

The use of a Peltier device to provide controlled heating and cooling profiles to test the applicability of time temperature integrators (TTIs) has been evaluated. The alpha-amylase of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens has been used as a case study. Kinetic parameters of the enzyme were first determined as D-85 (degrees c) of 6.1 min +/- 0.4 min and z of 12 degrees C +/- 1.3 degrees C. Non-isothermal heat treatment processes were simulated with a Peltier thermoelectric module, and the P values found by assaying the TTI responses and integrating thermocouple temperature-time data compared. The response of the TTI responses correlated well with the thermocouples for non-isothermal processes: The two sets of P values were identical to +/- 20%. The Peltier stage is shown to be useful in giving programmed temperature-time profiles that can be used to test the accuracy and application of TTIs. (c) 2007 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.