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Chitin isolation from crustacean waste using a hybrid demineralization/DBD plasma process
Milka Borić1, Filipa A Vicente2, Damjan Lašič Jurković2
1National Institute of Chemistry, Hajdrihova 19, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; Faculty of Technology and Metallurgy, University of Belgrade, Karnegijeva 4, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia.
Carbohydrate Polymers
|August 5, 2020
Summary
This study presents a sustainable chitin isolation method using atmospheric-pressure dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) plasma and organic acids. This novel approach effectively removes proteins and minerals from crustacean waste, generating minimal waste.
Area of Science:
- Biotechnology
- Materials Science
- Sustainable Chemistry
Background:
- Conventional chitin isolation from crustacean waste relies on hazardous chemicals, posing environmental concerns.
- There is a need for sustainable and eco-friendly methods for chitin extraction.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a sustainable and zero-waste process for chitin isolation from crustacean waste.
- To evaluate the efficacy of a hybrid dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) plasma and organic acid demineralization process.
Main Methods:
- A hybrid process combining atmospheric-pressure dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) plasma treatment with organic acid demineralization (lactic acid) was employed.
- Nitrogen-based plasma was used for protein removal, followed by demineralization to remove inorganic minerals.
- Characterization of isolated chitin using XPS, ATR-FTIR, XRD, and SEM, along with assessment of deacetylation degree and molecular weight.
Main Results:
- The hybrid process successfully eliminated 90% of proteins and achieved complete mineral removal from shrimp shell waste.
- Characterization confirmed the successful isolation and purification of chitin.
- The process demonstrated a significant reduction in hazardous chemical usage and waste generation.
Conclusions:
- The integration of DBD plasma and lactic acid demineralization offers a sustainable and feasible platform for chitin extraction.
- This eco-friendly method significantly reduces environmental impact compared to conventional techniques.
- The developed process yields high-quality chitin with potential applications in various industries.
