Crosslinked chitosan films with controllable properties for commercial applications

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Biotechnology
• Polymer Chemistry

Background:

• Chitosan, a biopolymer, is abundant and biocompatible.
• Developing sustainable materials is crucial for reducing plastic waste.
• Chitosan's properties can be modified for diverse applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop sustainable chitosan-based bioproducts.
• To enhance mechanical properties and control sorption characteristics.
• To explore commercial applications as plastic alternatives.

Main Methods:

• Chitosan films were prepared using citric acid as a crosslinker.
• Alkali treatment was applied to modify film properties.
• Evaluated sorption capabilities, mechanical strength, and stability.
• Assessed oxygen/water vapor transmission and antimicrobial activity.

Main Results:

• Untreated films exhibited high moisture sorption (up to 1466%).
• Alkali-treated films showed reduced water sorption (100-250%) and boiling water resistance.
• Chitosan films demonstrated excellent tensile strength and aqueous stability.
• Modified chitosan can be molded into various forms.

Conclusions:

• Sustainable chitosan bioproducts with tunable properties were successfully developed.
• These bioproducts offer a greener alternative to conventional plastics.
• Potential for commercial applications in replacing plastic-based commodity products.