Five‐factor response surface optimization of the enzymatic synthesis of citronellyl butyrate by lipase IM77 from Mucor miehei

Response surface methodology (RSM) and a five‐level‐five‐factor central composite rotatable design (CCRD) were used to evaluate the effects of synthetic variables, such as reaction time (3 to 27 h), temperature (25 to 65 °C), enzyme amount (10 to 50%), substrate molar ratio of citronellol to butyric acid (1∶1 to 1∶3), and added water amount (0 to 20%) on molar percent yield of citronellyl butyrate by direct esterification, using lipase IM77 from Mucor miehei . Reaction time and temperature were the most important variables. Substrate molar ratio had no effect on percent molar conversion. Based on contour plots, optimal synthetic conditions were these: reaction time 24 h, temperature 60°C, enzyme amount 20%, substrate molar ratio 1∶1.5, and added water 0%. The predicted molar conversion value was 100%. An actual experimental value of 98% molar conversion was obtained.