Optimizing enzymatic bioreactors: The role of mass transfer in enhancing catalytic efficiency and stability

Abstract

Enzymatic bioreactors are critical technologies for advancing green biomanufacturing; however, mass transfer limitations significantly affect both reaction efficiency and the long-term stability of enzyme catalysis. This review offers a comprehensive analysis of the mass transfer characteristics and corresponding regulation strategies across various enzymatic reactor types. It also addresses the applications and challenges of these reactors in diverse fields, including biopharmaceuticals, food processing, and energy and environmental protection. Understanding the role of mass transfer in reaction efficiency is essential for overcoming these limitations and optimizing reactor performance. By leveraging theories of mass transfer mechanisms and fluid dynamics, Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) emerges as a powerful tool for designing reactors that enhance mass transfer efficiency. Moreover, CFD can help align mass transfer rates with reaction rates, thereby sustaining both reaction efficiency and stability. The review further explores the challenges and opportunities in enzymatic reactor design and scale-up, aiming to provide theoretical insights that benefit both research and industrial applications in mass transfer control within enzymatic reactors.