Highly efficient enzymatic preparation for dimethyl carbonate catalyzed by lipase from Penicillium expansum immobilized on CMC–PVA film

Abstract

Herein we demonstrated a novel biocatalytic route for the synthesis of dimethyl carbonate (DMC) by the transesterification of ethylene carbonate with methanol. Immobilization of lipase from Penicillium expansum using environmentally benign and biodegradable film prepared using a blend of carboxymethyl cellulose and polyvinyl alcohol has significantly enhanced the catalytic activity. The biocatalyst revealed high catalytic performance under ambient pressure and low temperature. Even after 4 cycles, the catalysts still remained relatively active. • A novel biocatalytic route for the preparation of dimethyl carbonate is reported. • The catalytic activity enhanced significantly by the immobilization of lipase. • No other organic solvents were added in this efficient biocatalytic process. • Even after 4 cycles, the catalysts still remained relatively active. Herein, we demonstrated a environmental-friendly biocatalytic route for the synthesis of dimethyl carbonate (DMC), which is the first example to use enzyme in the process. Moreover, immobilization of Penicillium expansum lipase (PEL) using environmentally benign and biodegradable CMC–PVA polymer has significantly enhanced the catalytic activity thus making them an eligible biocatalyst for synthesis of DMC. The biocatalyst revealed high catalytic performance even under ambient pressure and low temperature (conversion of EC to 94%, yield of DMC to 93% and selectivity of DMC to 99%). The immobilized lipase was effectively recycled for four consecutive cycles providing good yields of the desired product. Accompanying with the intense requirement for the green chemicals and process, our work can provide a useful idea for “green and clean” of harmful chemical reaction.