A COMPARISON OF DIFFERENT METHODS OF BETA-GALACTOSIDASE IMMOBILIZATION

Beta-Galactosidase was immobilized in a range of supports showing suitable physico-chemical characteristics for use in fluidized bed reactors. Uncoated porous glass, alginate and Kappa-carrageenan beads and chromosorb-W were used as carriers. The intrinsic kinetic constants (V(max) and K(M)) and coupling parameters for the immobilization were calculated. The highest immobilized protein percentages and activity yields were obtained when beta-galactosidase was attached through its amine groups to aldehyde-glass. The final choice of derivative for use in fluidized bed reactors should be based not only on the enzymatic activity shown by the derivatives but also on the hydrodynamic behaviour of the supports.