Influence of the support on the reaction course of tributyrin hydrolysis catalyzed by soluble and immobilized lipases

Lipases from different origins have been immobilized in supports chosen by its different aquaphilicity and used as biocatalysts for the hydrolysis of tributyrin. The changes of the concentration of tri-, di-, monobutyrin, glycerol, and butyric acid during the reactions catalyzed by soluble, as well as immobilized, lipases were evaluated by gas chromatography. The experimental data were fitted to a simple kinetic model for the sequential reaction of tributyrin hydrolysis. The calculated apparent rate constants were different for the biocatalysts used and were apparently related to diffusional effects and aquaphilicity of the supports. Maximal yields of dibutyrin were found with the soluble Candida lipase, whereas the highest yield of monobutyrin (90%) was obtained with the least aquaphylic derivative (Candida-Celite).