Chemical industry and biocatalysts in Gaiker

1996/07/01 Elhuyar Zientzia Iturria: Elhuyar aldizkaria

• Industria

In this corner we have frequently mentioned the research projects that are carried out internationally. Once the laboratory phase is over, most of the results of these projects are aimed at industrial use, immediately affecting our way of life. It is therefore fortunate news, to lead a research center of the Basque Country in such a research project. And that's the reader, what we're going to tell now.

The Research Centre of Gaiker Zamudio will be in charge until December of the management and coordination of the program called European Innovation. This month we expect to know the result of the work done by different research groups. As explained by Gaiker, in addition to avoiding the problems that catalysts generate in the chemical industries, steps are being taken to enable the use of enzymes.

These studies are focused on the progressive elimination of chemical catalysts used in some processes. In fact, chemical catalysts often have a negative influence on the production process, since their handling requires very harsh working conditions. The use of enzymes instead of catalysts would keep the product quality and working conditions more sustainable and, in addition, would not produce effects on the environment. At Gaiker, at least, they are of this perception and have obtained very positive results during the years they have worked in this field.

Undoubtedly, the experience of this Research Center has been the main reason to be appointed head of the Innovation project. The different production processes must be studied in detail to know the enzymes that adapt to different needs and thus define their use.