Question

Lipase is a natural enzyme, which cleaves carboxylic ester bonds. Among the options given, identify the polymer(s) degraded by lipase.

• A. Polypropylene (PP)
• B. Polycaprolactone (PCL)
• C. Polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF)
• D. Polyethylene terephthalate (PET)

Hint:

Lipase acts on \textbf{polyesters} (–COO– groups). Hydrocarbon and fluorocarbon polymers are resistant.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B, D

Step 1: Recall action of lipase.
Lipase enzymes catalyze the hydrolysis of ester bonds, which are present in polyesters.
Step 2: Analyze each polymer.
- Polypropylene (PP): Nonpolar hydrocarbon chain with no ester linkages $\Rightarrow$ not degraded by lipase.
- Polycaprolactone (PCL): Aliphatic polyester with ester linkages in every repeating unit $\Rightarrow$ susceptible to lipase degradation.
- Polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF): A fluoropolymer with C–F bonds, chemically inert $\Rightarrow$ not degraded by lipase.
- Polyethylene terephthalate (PET): Aromatic polyester with ester linkages $\Rightarrow$ lipase can act on ester groups, though less efficiently than on PCL.
Step 3: Conclude.
Lipase degrades PCL and PET. Final Answer: \[ \boxed{\text{Polycaprolactone (PCL) and Polyethylene terephthalate (PET)}} \]