Exploring the potential of magnetic nanoparticles in lipase immobilization for enhanced biodiesel production: a comprehensive review

The lipase-catalyzed transesterification for biodiesel production has its benefits compared to alkali-based methods when dealing with feedstocks that contain elevated levels of free fatty acids (FFA). However, the widespread application of lipase is limited by its fundamental instability and high cost. Binding lipase to solid supports presents an effective approach to enhance the enzyme's stability and facilitate its reusability. Nanoscale materials have attracted considerable interest because of their large surface area, which improves enzyme adhesion and minimizes mass transfer issues. Magnetic nanoparticles have attracted considerable attention because of their ability to immobilize lipase enzymes through specific interactions, resulting in improved stability. Furthermore, their superparamagnetic properties enable easy separation, offering significant operational advantages. This review aims to provide a thorough examination of the advancements in lipase immobilized magnetic nanoparticles to improve biodiesel production. This study's findings could improve enzyme-based techniques that are both more efficient and cost-effective for producing biodiesel, thus supporting the transition to renewable energy sources and reducing the environmental impacts associated with fossil fuel use.