The characterization of immobilized enzymes allows the evaluation of the immobilization process itself and also the projection of the immobilized enzyme performance under process operation conditions. Based on such characterization, strategies for support functionalization and enzyme immobilization into the activated support can be selected, determining the best conditions for conducting such steps in view of the intended use of the biocatalyst, establishing a linkage between biocatalyst production and biocatalyst use. The determination of the catalytic potential of the immobilized enzyme under operational conditions is a priceless parameter that takes into account both activity and stability, including the effect of both mass transfer limitations (diffusional restrictions) and intrinsic enzyme inactivation upon the immobilization process.
Keywords: Catalytic potential; Diffusional restrictions; Enzyme inactivation; Immobilization yield; Inactivation mechanism.