Selective adsorption of aromatic ketones on kerolite clay for separation in biocatalytic applications

The potential of natural clay as adsorbent for biotechnology processes was systematically investigated. Adsorption isotherms for several substrates and products of an alcohol dehydrogenase catalysed reaction were determined by static experiments. A distinct selective adsorption behaviour of natural kerolite clay was proven for aromatic ketones and alcohols in particular for acetophenone and phenylethanol. In aqueous media high adsorbed amounts (q) were stated for those molecules to be adsorbed (adsorptive) which possess both a carbonyl and a phenyl group. This led to an adsorbed amount of 17% (w/w) for acetophenone on kerolite clay.