Saccharomyces cerevisiae cells were immobilized by cell suspension homogenization with a soluble prepolymeric matrix, forming insoluble polymer entrapped homogeneously distributed cells. The fermentation capacity of this system was found to be maximal at 30 degrees C and relatively pH insensitive. A packed column reactor was used to test this biocatalyst＇s operational sensitivity to key fermentation variables. The results obtained as well as the characteristics of the polymer, prepared by an epoxy resin and diaminopolyethylene oxide polymerization, present this method as a good choice for ethanol production.