A simplified model of peroxidase-catalyzed phenol removal from aqueous solution

A number of investigations have demonstrated the potential of applying peroxidase enzymes to remove aromatic compounds from wastewater. The efficiency of alternative peroxidase enzymes could be compared on a kinetic basis using a versatile model which may be calibrated in a straightforward manner. A model of the peroxidase-catalyzed removal of aqueous aromatic compounds has been developed. This model is calibrated using readily available spectrophotometric and mathematical techniques and is shown to accurately predict aqueous phenol removal at 25 degrees C and neutral pH over the course of batch reactions both in the presence and absence of polyethylene glycol, a protective additive. (C) 1999 Society of Chemical Industry.