Evaluación de la capacidad y eficiencia de enzimas lipasas encapsuladas para degradación de grasas

Abstract

This research project focused on the development and evaluation of a lipase encapsulation system for the degradation of fats, oils, and greases (FOG) in wastewater. Three native mesophilic bacterial strains (TG3, TG5, and TG16), isolated from grease traps at ESPOL, were characterized for their lipolytic activity. Strain TG3 stood out for its high yield (5.93 U/mL), while TG16 showed high stability. From these strains, a bacterial consortium was formed, and its enzymatic extract was immobilized through ionic gelation in sodium alginate matrices. Protocol standardization determined that a 1.0% alginate concentration is optimal, achieving an activity of 6.67 U/mL, which is superior to the free consortium (4.44 U/mL). This system not only optimized mass transfer and prevented enzyme leaching but also provided a protective microenvironment that facilitates biocatalyst reuse, offering a viable and sustainable biotechnological solution for managing industrial and domestic effluents