Effect of the polymer matrices on the immobilisation of microbial cells by radiation polymerisation

Streptomyces phaeochromogenes cells were immobilised by radiation polymerisation, at low temperature, using various acrylate and diacrylate monomers. The form and enzymatic activity of the immobilised cell composites were affected by the molecular structure of the monomers. The activities of the composites from acylate and diacrylate monomers increased with increased numbers of methylene or ethylene glycol units in the monomers. The water content of the immobilised cell composites was also affected by the molecular structure of the monomers. The pH and heat stabilities of the immobilised cell composites were increased when the polymer matrix had a porous sponge structure.