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Topical Paper: Biocatalysts and Bioreactor Design
Use of laccase in pulp and paper industry
Article first published online: 19 OCT 2011
DOI: 10.1002/btpr.727
Copyright © 2011 American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AIChE)
Additional Information
How to Cite
Virk, A. P., Sharma, P. and Capalash, N. (2012), Use of laccase in pulp and paper industry. Biotechnol Progress, 28: 21–32. doi: 10.1002/btpr.727
Publication History
- Issue published online: 2 FEB 2012
- Article first published online: 19 OCT 2011
- Accepted manuscript online: 12 SEP 2011 02:11PM EST
- Manuscript Revised: 7 SEP 2011
- Manuscript Received: 16 JUN 2011
- Abstract
- Article
- References
- Cited By
Keywords:
- laccase mediator systems;
- pulp;
- lignin;
- lipophilic extractives;
- effluent
Abstract
Laccase, through its versatile mode of action, has the potential to revolutionize the pulping and paper making industry. It not only plays a role in the delignification and brightening of the pulp but has also been described for the removal of the lipophilic extractives responsible for pitch deposition from both wood and nonwood paper pulps. Laccases are capable of improving physical, chemical, as well as mechanical properties of pulp either by forming reactive radicals with lignin or by functionalizing lignocellulosic fibers. Laccases can also target the colored and toxic compounds released as effluents from various industries and render them nontoxic through its polymerization and depolymerization reactions. This article reviews the use of both fungal and bacterial laccases in improving pulp properties and bioremediation of pulp and paper mill effluents. © 2011 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 2012