BTLW100050 Biocatalysis and electrocatalysis

Type
course with non-continuous assessment
Semester hours
2
Lecturer (assistant)
Ludwig, Roland
Organisation
Biotechnology and Food Science
Offered in
Sommersemester 2026
Languages of instruction
Englisch
Content

This lecture introduces two key catalytic strategies for greener chemical synthesis: biocatalysis and electrocatalysis. Both approaches support the goals of green chemistry by improving selectivity, reducing energy demand, minimizing waste, and enabling the use of renewable resources.

The biocatalysis part covers the use of enzymes and whole cells as catalysts in chemical transformations. Students learn how biocatalysts enable highly selective reactions under mild conditions, often in aqueous media, and how they can replace hazardous reagents or multi-step synthetic routes. Examples include the enzymatric production of fine chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and bio-based materials.

The electrocatalysis part focuses on chemical reactions driven by electricity. Topics include electrode materials, redox processes, and electrochemical syntheses. The lecture highlights how electrocatalysis can reduce the need for stoichiometric oxidants or reductants and contribute to sustainable energy conversion and storage.

By comparing biological and electrochemical catalysis, students gain an understanding of how catalyst design, reaction conditions, and process integration can make chemical production cleaner, safer, and more resource-efficient.
Previous knowledge expected

none
Objective (expected results of study and acquired competences)

After completing this lecture, students will be able to:
1. Explain the basic principles of biocatalysis and electrocatalysis and relate them to the goals of green chemistry.
2. Describe the role of enzymes, whole cells, and electrode materials as catalysts in sustainable chemical transformations.
3. Identify advantages and limitations of biocatalytic and electrocatalytic processes, including selectivity, reaction conditions, energy use, scalability, and catalyst stability.
4. Compare biocatalysis and electrocatalysis with conventional chemical catalysis in terms of environmental impact, safety, and resource efficiency.
5. Interpret simple reaction examples involving enzymatic transformations and electrochemical redox reactions.
6. Discuss current and potential applications of biocatalysis and electrocatalysis in areas such as fine chemicals, pharmaceuticals, bio-based materials, energy conversion, and carbon dioxide utilization.
7. Recognize key challenges in implementing these technologies, including enzyme robustness, electrode performance, reaction selectivity, and process scale-up.
You can find more details like the schedule or information about exams on the course-page in BOKUonline.