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Hydrophilic Chitosan Derivatives: Synthesis and Applications
Erez Cohen1,2, Elena Poverenov1
1Agro-Nanotechnology and Advanced Materials Center, Institute of Postharvest and Food Sciences, Agriculture Research Organization, The Volcani Institute, 68 HaMacabim Road, Rishon LeZion, 7505101, Israel.
Chemistry (Weinheim an Der Bergstrasse, Germany)
|September 8, 2022
Summary
This review explores natural polymer alternatives, focusing on chitosan. We detail methods to enhance chitosan
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Polymer Chemistry
Background:
- Natural polymers are gaining traction for diverse applications.
- Chitosan offers biodegradability, biocompatibility, bioactivity, and low toxicity.
- Chitosan's limited solubility hinders widespread use despite synthetic modifications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review synthetic methods for enhancing chitosan's hydrophilicity and water solubility.
- To explore applications of modified chitosan in various fields.
- To provide future perspectives on chitosan modification and implementation.
Main Methods:
- Covalent modifications of chitosan's active sites (C3/C6 hydroxyl, C2 amino).
- Specific modification strategies include amino acid addition, quaternary ammonium formation, phosphorylation, and carboxymethylation.
- Review of existing literature on these modifications and their applications.
Main Results:
- Several synthetic routes effectively increase chitosan's water solubility.
- Modified chitosan demonstrates utility in cosmetics, medicine, agriculture, and water purification.
- The reviewed modifications address chitosan's solubility limitations.
Conclusions:
- Synthetic modification is key to overcoming chitosan's solubility issues.
- Enhanced chitosan holds significant potential across multiple industries.
- Further research into novel modifications and applications is warranted.
