Enzymatic experts are those that address the enzyme in the renewable fuels or renewable chemicals process. Enzymes are protein molecules that are part of every living organism and support all of life’s functions. Enzyme technologies utilize biological catalysts, enzymes, rather than chemical catalysts in industrial reactions. Enzyme engineering is the application of altering the enzyme’s structure or modifying its activity to produce new metabolites, or to allow new pathways for reactions to convert from certain compounds into others. These products will be useful for chemicals, pharmaceuticals, fuel, food or agricultural additives. Humans have adapted some of these specialized catalysts to industrial systems, including biofuel production, paper pulp bleaching and recycling, textile treatments, and diagnostic sensors. For biofuels in particular, enzymes (cellulases) are used to break plant materials into sugars for fermentation. Others, lipase and phospholipase, can be used for biodiesel production. Many other used in bio-based products can be envisioned. An exciting recent development is the application of genetic engineering techniques to enzyme technology.
An enzymatic expert has degrees and experience in enzyme biochemistry and an understanding of process engineering. Since enzymes catalyze a wide range of reactions, it is first important that this expert understands not only what makes enzymes work best, but also what destroys enzymes. This expert understands what maximizes and prolongs enzyme activity to convert a substrate or substrates to the desired product or products. This includes controlling the environment in which the reaction takes place. Common considerations such as temperature, pH, and shear forces play critical roles. Methods to protect enzymes such as immobilization, encapsulation, or other stabilizing means may also be important. An enzymatic expert must know which enzymes are utilized for which processes as well as how to source the enzymes. Not all enzymes are available in large volumes and some applications cannot be done because of high cost. An enzyme expert can assist clients with identifying the best enzyme for the particular application as well as what the price point would have be for that unit operation. They may also recommend potential suppliers and can assist in any processes where enzymatic reactions are involved. They can assist in a variety of matters involving biofuels and biochemicals, and where litigation is involved can serve as expert witnesses or consultants to assist the attorneys and court with understanding the processes involved.
At Lee Enterprises Consulting, we have a number of highly qualified enzyme experts available to assist you with any related matters. We are the world’s premier bioeconomy consulting group, with over 150 highly qualified experts serving in all these areas. Take a look at our experts and the services we provide and you will see that we have just the right expert for any clean energy project. Most of our experts are also available to advise and serve as expert witnesses in bioeconomy litigation matters. For the larger projects, we specialize in putting together full-service, interdisciplinary teams with one point of contact. Call us at 1+ (501) 833-8511 or email us for more information. See also: Catalysts and Enzymes in Biofuels Production and Enzyme Technologies .
