Chitosan-based smart hybrid materials: a physico-chemical perspective.

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Polymer Chemistry
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Chitosan is a widely studied cationic polysaccharide known for its biocompatibility, biodegradability, and non-toxicity.
• Its unique properties make it attractive for diverse applications, leading to a wide array of chitosan-based materials.
• The complex behavior of chitosan allows for versatile interactions within systems.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent advancements in chitosan-based materials from a physico-chemical viewpoint.
• To highlight the properties of aqueous mixtures with oppositely charged colloids, thin films, and nanocomposite systems.
• To link the physico-chemical properties of these materials to chitosan's inherent chemical characteristics.

Main Methods:

• Physico-chemical characterization of chitosan-based materials.
• Analysis of interactions in aqueous mixtures with charged colloids.
• Fabrication and assessment of chitosan-based thin films and nanocomposites.

Main Results:

• Chitosan-based materials exhibit a range of properties including tunable solubility, mechanical resistance, barrier performance, and thermal behavior.
• Aqueous mixtures with oppositely charged colloids demonstrate complex phase behavior.
• Thin films and nanocomposites showcase tailored functionalities based on chitosan's intrinsic properties.

Conclusions:

• The physico-chemical properties of chitosan-based materials are directly influenced by chitosan's inherent characteristics, such as low solubility, rigidity, and hydrogen bonding.
• Understanding these links is crucial for designing advanced chitosan materials for specific applications.
• Recent advances underscore the potential of chitosan in developing novel functional materials.