Solid matrix characterization of immobilized Pseudomonas putida MTCC 1194 used for phenol degradation

Characterization studies of calcium alginate beads with encapsulated Pseudo monas putida MTCC 1194, used for the biodegradation of phenol, were carried out to investigate the reactivity, reusability and structural strength of the solid matrix. Various techniques were employed to improve the structura l stability of the immobilized solid necessary for its use in commercial re actors like packed bed flow reactor, fluidized bed and CSTR systems. Experi ments were performed to establish the optimum conditions for durability, st rength and steady biochemical reactivity. During a batch run of 40 h a grad ual decline in the rate of phenol degradation was observed with the immobil ized system. The calcium alginate beads with high structural strength yield ed decreased activity. Treatment with a hardening agent like glutaraldehyde for different concentrations and treatment times led to variations in stru ctural stability, reusability and the extent of phenol degradation. Scannin g electron microscope studies of the immobilized solid indicated the intern al distribution pattern of the cells encapsulated in a calcium alginate bea d.