Lipase from Candida rugosa (CR) was adsorbed onto low-molecular-weight polypropylene powder (PP). Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX) techniques, and conversion yield of CR/PP-mediated-ethyl oleate synthesis in solvent-free media, demonstrated lipase adsorption onto PP and its affinity towards biggest polypropylene particles (590-1180 mum). An ethanol pretreatment was assayed in order to decrease the hydrophobic nature of PP. Long periods of ethanol pretreatment led to immobilised particles with different average size and associated activity. Molecular mechanics software packages were used to study the interaction between polypropylene and CR's lid. (C) 2004 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.