Preparation of Channeled Alumina and Aluminum Hydroxide Beads and Membranes for Yeast Cell Immobilization

Abstract

Special alumina beads or spheres with channeled surfaces were prepared and used to test cell immobilization for ethanol production by fermentation. Two types of assymetric alumina membranes were also prepared with the same purpose. Fermentation assays of sugar solutions were conducted in flasks and in test tubes with Durhan tubes, with production of ethanol and good performance of the alumina beads. There was spontaneous adhesion of the cells to the walls of the channels of the beads. Fixation and growth of yeast cells on the channels were followed by scanning electron microscopy and by the increase in dry weight of the beads.