Importance of nanocatalyst and its role in biofuel production

Nanomaterials are used as catalysts for a wide number of heterogeneous and homogeneous catalyzed reactions. Nanocatalysts support carrying out the reactions effectively in an optimized way. The immobilization of enzymes by the utilization of nanostructured materials positively improves the biocatalytic efficiency due to increased enzyme loading and large surface area. Currently, the world is in need of an alternate energy source due to increased concerns about environmental pollution, its effects, and energy security. Bioethanol produced through saccharification and fermentation is a good solution to address the condition. Microbial fermentation of the sugar resulted in the ethanol production. Two main components of edible and nonedible source, that is, starch and cellulose, in principle can be altered to sugars for fermentation. Nanocatalysts have a major role currently. In addition to bioethanol production, nanocatalysts also play a major role in biodiesel production. They can augment the reaction rate by contributing a greater number of active sites because of their increased surface-area-to-volume ratio. They play a major role in the transesterification of many oils for the production of biodiesel. Nanoparticles either can be used as such or they can be used for the immobilization of lipase enzyme for biodiesel production. In many studies these catalysts were considered to be cost effective and environment friendly. Thus, nanoparticles play a vital role in the biofuel industry.