CAS Number:
Does not have a single CAS number, as it is a compounded product. Each constituent enzyme has its own CAS number (e.g., Amylase 9000-90-2, Protease 9014-01-1, Cellulase 9012-54-8)
Chemical Name:
Mixed Enzymes (Enzyme Blend). There is no single chemical name
Composition:
A blend of specific enzyme proteins (e.g., amylases, proteases, lipases, cellulases, mannanases, etc.) often with a carrier (e.g., dextrin, sodium chloride)
Common Form:
Fine granular powder (most common), granules, or liquid. Color ranges from white to light brown depending on the components.
Uses:
Enzyme blends are designed to achieve higher efficiency in complex degradation processes that require the sequential or simultaneous action of multiple enzymes.
Primary Applications:
· Detergent Industry: The most common use. A blend of proteases (for protein stain degradation), amylases (for starch), lipases (for fats), and mannanases (for fruit extracts) for comprehensive cleaning.
· Animal Feed Industry: A mixture of cellulases, hemicellulases, phytases, and beta-glucanases to improve the digestion of plant components (like fiber and phytate) and increase nutrient availability.
· Starch and Biofuel Industry: A blend of amylases (fungal and bacterial) and glucoamylases to convert starch into simple sugars for ethanol fermentation.
· Food Processing: Blends for baking (amylases, proteases) and fruit juice processing (pectinases, cellulases).
What does Mixed Enzymes do in a formulation?
- Synergistic Effect: Work together to break down complex substrates (like a food stain) more completely and quickly than any single enzyme could.
- Specialized Breakdown: Each enzyme targets a specific chemical bond. The mixture attacks a variety of bonds simultaneously.
- Performance Enhancement: In detergents, it allows for effective washing at lower temperatures and shorter times. In feed, it improves nutritional value.
- Sustainability Improver: Enables more efficient chemical processes and reduces the consumption of energy and harsh chemicals.
Safety Profile:
· Hazard Classification: Respiratory sensitizers (main hazard). Inhalation of enzyme dust can cause allergic asthma or exacerbate existing asthma. Generally not toxic upon ingestion.
· Skin/Eye Exposure: May cause irritation, especially at high concentrations or in their active form.
· Inhalation Exposure: The greatest risk. Avoid inhaling dust or aerosols.
· Required PPE: Essential when handling powders. Dust-proof mask (at least N95), safety goggles, gloves, and a lab coat.
· Storage & Handling: Store in a cool, dry place (usually <25°C). Keep in the original, tightly sealed container. Use local exhaust ventilation to contain dust.
· Disposal: According to local regulations. Do not pour down drains.
Technical profile:
| Property | Values |
| Appearance | Fine to coarse granular powder, granules, or liquid |
| Activity | Measured in enzyme units per gram (U/g) or ml for each component (e.g., Protease ≥ 15,000 U/g, Amylase ≥ 10,000 U/g). This is the most important indicator. |
| Optimum pH | Typically between 5.0 and 10.0, depending on the blend (e.g., detergent blends work at alkaline pH 9-11) |
| Optimum Temperature Range | Typically between 40 and 60°C, with variations |
| Solubility | Soluble in water; avoid high temperatures during preparation |
| Stability | Sensitive to heat, moisture, and oxidation. Loses activity over time even under good storage conditions. |