Bionanocomposite materials for biocatalytic applications

Biocatalysis plays a major role in a wide variety of biological and industrial processes ranging from environmental applications to the synthesis of high added value chemical compounds. However, given the biological nature of the catalysts and their particular sensitivity toward the physicochemical conditions such as pH, temperature, or osmotic stress, these catalysts are prone to inactivation during processing. Here we discuss the long-lasting efforts of the materials science community to create bionanocomposite materials capable of creating a dedicated environment around biocatalysts. We will focus on some of the key biocatalysts in the domain, the main structural elements of bionanocomposite materials,and their assembly to elaborate bionanocomposite materials devoted to biocatalysis. Finally we will discuss the impact of this approach in the activity, stability, and recyclability of biocatalysts responsible in some of the most relevant applications.