Preparation of an immobilized two-enzyme system, Beta-amylase--pullulanase, to an acrylic copolymer for the conversion of starch to maltose. III. Process kinetic studies on continuous reactors

Kinetic studies on the parameters influencing the potential industrial application of an immobilized two-enzyme system of β-amylase and pullulanase for conversion of starch to a product with high maltose content, have been performed. The apparent Michaelis constant, the apparent product inhibitor constant, and the activation energy have been determined for the immobilized preparation and compared to the values for the corresponding soluble enzyme system. The catalytic activity of the immobilized enzymes was studied in a plug-flow reactor and a continuous feed stirred tank reactor. Mathematical models for these reactors have been formulated and adapted to fit the experimental data. Comparisons of the reactor efficiencies were made and the conditions were found to be such as to favor the plug-flow reactor. Results on operational stability tests at different temperatures and substrate concentrations are given.