Abstract
The aim of this thesis is to develop bio-based supports for immobilization of enzymes for micro pollutants degradation in water. Gelatin beads of around 1,9 mm diameter were formed by a dripping process using no organic solvent. A crosslinking step with glutaraldehyde was then carried out with two objectives: to improve the mechanical properties of the beads when immersed in water, and to create covalent bonds between gelatin and laccase. The parameters affecting the efficiency of the enzyme grafting were investigated using a full factorial design 2^4.The degradation of two micro pollutants by the activated beads was studied in a stirred tank reactor and in a fluidized bed reactor designed for this project. Tetracycline was efficiently oxidized by the grafted enzymes. The influences of pH, recirculation flowrate, and addition of supplementary oxygen on the TC degradation were studied. Glyphosate was not sensitive to laccase oxidation at first due to its complex structure, but the addition of ABTS as an oxidoreduction mediator considerably improved its removal. Mediator and bio-catalyst were co-immobilized on the gelatin beads to reduce the environmental and economical cost of the project.