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Crosslinking of chitosan films processed by compression molding
P Guerrero1, A Muxika1, I Zarandona1
1BIOMAT research group, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Engineering of Gipuzkoa, Plaza de Europa 1, 20018 Donostia-San Sebastián, Spain.
Carbohydrate Polymers
|December 17, 2018
Summary
Sustainable chitosan films were made using thermo-compression molding and citric acid. This method avoids solvents, reduces production time, and enhances film properties for food and pharmaceutical uses.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Polymer Chemistry
- Biomaterials Engineering
Background:
- Chitosan films are widely used but often require organic solvents for production.
- Developing sustainable and efficient manufacturing methods for chitosan films is crucial.
- Crosslinking agents are needed to improve chitosan film properties.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore a sustainable method for producing chitosan films using thermo-compression molding.
- To investigate the use of citric acid as a natural crosslinker for chitosan.
- To evaluate the structural and mechanical properties of the resulting chitosan films.
Main Methods:
- Chitosan and citric acid were mixed in solid form and processed via thermo-compression molding.
- Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) were used for characterization.
- Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was employed to observe the film's microstructure.
Main Results:
- Thermo-compression molding reduced production time and eliminated the need for organic solvents.
- Citric acid effectively crosslinked chitosan, forming homogeneous structures.
- Tensile strength increased by 80% and elongation at break by 3000% in crosslinked films.
- Films exhibited hydrophobic character and a more amorphous structure upon citric acid addition.
Conclusions:
- Thermo-compression molding offers a sustainable and efficient route for chitosan film production.
- Citric acid acts as an effective natural crosslinker, significantly enhancing mechanical properties.
- The developed chitosan films show promise for applications in the food and pharmaceutical industries.
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