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Efficient and green extraction of chitin from mantis shrimp shell using deep eutectic solvents at room temperature
Jinjing Ma1, Deyu Chu1, Vokhidova Noyira Rakhimovna2
1Dalian Engineering Research Center for Carbohydrate Agricultural Preparations, Dalian Technology Innovation Center for Green Agriculture, Liaoning Provincial Key Laboratory of Carbohydrates, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian 116023, China; College of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Dalian Jiaotong University, Dalian 116028, China.
This study introduces a green method using deep eutectic solvents (DESs) to extract high-purity chitin from mantis shrimp (MS) shells. This novel approach yields high molecular weight chitin and demonstrates excellent solvent recyclability for sustainable marine waste valorization.
Area of Science:
- Biopolymer extraction and processing
- Green chemistry and sustainable materials
Background:
- Mantis shrimp (MS) exoskeletons are a rich source of chitin, a valuable biopolymer.
- Conventional chitin extraction methods often involve harsh chemicals and can degrade chitin quality.
- Marine waste valorization is crucial for environmental sustainability.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the efficacy of deep eutectic solvents (DESs) for chitin extraction from MS shells.
- To optimize DES extraction conditions for high purity and high molecular weight (Mw) chitin.
- To assess the recyclability of the DES solvent system.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a novel DES system composed of lactic acid and triethylbenzylammonium chloride.
- Optimized extraction parameters to maximize chitin purity and Mw.
- Evaluated chitin purity and Mw using analytical techniques and assessed solvent recyclability over multiple cycles.
Main Results:
- Achieved a high chitin purity of 95.65% under optimized conditions.
- Extracted chitin exhibited a molecular weight approximately 2.5 times higher than conventional methods.
- Chitin purity remained high (94.84%) after three solvent recycling cycles, demonstrating excellent recyclability.
Conclusions:
- Deep eutectic solvents offer a green and highly efficient route for chitin extraction from mantis shrimp shells.
- This method successfully balances high chitin purity, high molecular weight, and solvent recyclability.
- The study presents a promising solution for sustainable marine waste valorization and biopolymer production.
