Redox enzyme – glucose oxidase – initiated synthesis of polypyrrole

Abstract

Redox enzyme – glucose oxidase E.C. 1.1.3.4. from Penicillum vitale (GOx) – initiated polypyrrole (Ppy) synthesis is reported. Hydrogen peroxide produced during catalytic reaction of GOx initiated the polymerisation of polypyrrole. The increase in optical absorbance at λ = 460 nm was exploited for the monitoring of polypyrrole polymerisation process. The role of GOx in the formation of Ppy was studied. After 16–18 days of polymerisation period Ppy appeared as microparticles visible by optical microscope. The dependence of polymerisation efficiency on initial concentrations of some compounds in polymerisation solutions was studied. The study of pH influence on polymerisation rate showed that Ppy polymerisation was occurring at almost similar rate in a broad pH range: ranging from pH 3.0 to 9.0. Optimal polymerisation temperature was found to be 37.5 °C – the same as optimal GOx operational temperature.