Endoxylanase Immobilized Nanoporous Silica for the Production of Xylooligosaccharides: Equilibrium Kinetics, Thermodynamic Studies, and Enzyme Characteristics

Abstract Nanoporous structured silica materials, namely f ‐SiO 2 , SBA‐15, IITM‐41, and MCM‐41 were employed as the matrices for immobilizing endoxylanase by adsorption method. The equilibrium kinetics, activation energy, and thermodynamic parameters associated with endoxylanase adsorption were investigated. Our findings revealed a two‐phase adsorption mechanism: an initial phase featuring rapid adsorption rates, succeeded by a slower phase wherein adsorption gradually progressed until equilibrium was attained. Analysis of the adsorption kinetic data indicated a better fit with the pseudo‐second‐order model, suggesting chemisorption and highlighting its temperature dependency. The calculated activation energy (E a ) values fell within the range of physisorption, indicating the involvement of both types of adsorption processes. Thermodynamic assessments confirmed that the adsorption reactions were spontaneous, feasible, and endothermic. Notably, the immobilization process did not change the optimum pH of the enzyme, while the optimum temperature shifted slightly. Furthermore, immobilized enzymes show a higher reaction rate (V max ) than the soluble XynC. All immobilized xylanases produced xylobiose (X2) to xylohexose (X6) by hydrolyzing the xylan substrate. Recycling studies showed that up to 80 % of the yield was retained after seven cycles of reuse. Our study demonstrates the potential of nanostructured silica as an effective immobilization matrix for enzymes of industrial significance.