Nanobiocatalytic systems for the inactivation and biotransformation of explosive molecules
Abstract
This project is a continuation of the project ÒLaccases from Pycnoporus sanguineus as a potential catalyst for inactivation and degradation of explosives (W911NF-17-1-0279)Ó, where the effectiveness of native laccase enzymes from a northeast Mexico fungus with high potential for biotransformation and inactivation of explosive molecules was successfully demonstrated. In the study trinitrotoluene (TNT) and nitroglycerin (NG) were successfully transform into a safe intermediates with less toxicity and explosiveness. The present proposal aim to develop a nanobiocatalytic system with improve stability of the enzymes studied for the explosive degradation in water and in the field. The design of a nanobiocatalytic systems has the potential to improve the efficiency of explosive transformation due to its protective environment that provide a greater stability for enzymes. Biocatalytic processes are often limited by the lack of enzyme stability, short life span and mode of application. However, nanobiocatalysis has experienced rapid growth due to recent advances in nanotechnology and availability of infrastructure. Therefore, enzyme immobilization and nanotechnology are key for the successful implementation of enzyme-based industrial processes. The enzymes in functionalized nanostructured materials could give a greater stability while maintaining enzyme activity and easy recyclability under various conditions, as well as to improve the application in real environments. The general objective of the present proposal is evaluate the laccase nanobiocatalytic systems from P. sanguineus for biotransformation and inactivation of explosives molecules. Our hypothesis is that the develop laccases nanobiocatalytic systems improve the biotransformation and inactivation of explosive molecules such as TNT and NG, and will increase the life span of the catalyst and enhance the explosive degradation efficiency. This could make nanobiocatalytic systems as a suitable tool for the bioremediation in explosive contaminated sites and an alternative to demolition practices. The scientific objective is to have the evidence for a better understanding of the biodegradation phenomena of explosive molecules. This research proposal is aligned with the Basic Research program. The proposed effort benefits the US Army increasing knowledge and understanding of alternative methods for biotransformation and inactivation of explosive molecules that generate different problems of safety management and environmental that cause adverse effects on ecosystems and human health. This project is highly relevant and provides the basis for a new tool in bioremediation of sites contaminated with explosives and an alternative to demolition practices. The biodegradation of explosives and munitions is relevant and difficult to understand under natural conditions. The results will enable a greater understanding of biodegradation phenomena.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Jun 25, 2021
- Source ID
- W911NF2110311
Entities
People
- Roberto Parra-saldivar
Organizations
- Army Contracting Command
- Monterrey Institute of Technology and Higher Education
- United States Army