Barrios et al. Biotechnology for Biofuels and Bioproducts
(2025) 18:48
Page 2 of 23
Graphical Abstract
Introduction Cell-free enzyme systems, typically derived from cell-free extracts or purified enzymes, have been increasingly adopted in the pulp and paper industry (P&PI) to enhance the efficiency and sustainability of various processes [1]. These systems enable the controlled application of specific enzymatic activities without the complications associated with living cells, such as the need for growth, metabolic byproducts, or the regulation of cellular pathways that may interfere with the desired reactions [2]. By focusing on purified enzymes or enzyme cocktails, the industry can achieve targeted modifications to pulp fibers, such as reducing lignin content, enhancing fiber flexibility, or increasing fibrillation, thereby improving the
overall quality of the final paper products. One of the primary applications of cell-free systems in the pulp and paper industry is in biobleaching, where enzymes such as laccases, xylanases, and lignin peroxidases are employed to reduce the use of harmful chemicals, such as chlorine and chlorine dioxide [3]. Xylanases have been used to degrade hemicellulose, which helps remove lignin from the fibers, making the bleaching process more environmentally friendly and cost- effective. Laccases, often used with mediators, can oxidize phenolic compounds in lignin, facilitating its breakdown and removal during subsequent washing stages [4]. These enzymatic treatments can significantly lower the chemical oxygen demand (COD) and
Made with FlippingBook. PDF to flipbook with ease