Recovery and Characterization of Alkaline Protease from Wastewater Sludge
Author Information
Author(s): Bezawada Jyothi, Yan S., John Rojan P., Tyagi R. D., Surampalli R. Y.
Primary Institution: INRS-ETE, Université du Québec
Hypothesis
The study aims to recover and concentrate alkaline protease activity from fermented wastewater sludge using ultrafiltration.
Conclusion
The alkaline protease from Bacillus licheniformis ATCC 21424 is thermostable and alkali-tolerant, making it suitable for use as a detergent additive.
Supporting Evidence
- The enzyme showed maximum activity at 60°C and pH 10.
- 83% of protease activity was recovered using an optimal transmembrane pressure of 90 kPa.
- The protease was stable at alkaline pH and high temperatures.
- The enzyme retained significant activity when tested with various commercial detergents.
Takeaway
Scientists found a way to get a special cleaning enzyme from dirty water, and it works really well even in hot water and with soap.
Methodology
The study used ultrafiltration to recover alkaline protease from the supernatant of fermented wastewater sludge, optimizing parameters like transmembrane pressure and feed flux.
Limitations
The study did not quantify the exact loss of enzyme activity during the ultrafiltration process.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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