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VOL. 8, ISSUE 3 (2026)
Chitosan- A versatile biopolymer: Insights into source, extraction process, characterization, properties and its use across fields
Authors
Thangarajan Thiyagarajan, Vinitha Devaraju, Muthukrishnan Pallikondaperumal, Rajendran Ramasamy
Abstract
Chitosan, a naturally occurring cationic
polymer substance obtained as a result of deacetylation of chitin, a parental
form, is the second most commonly used natural biopolymer next to cellulose.
The main source of chitin is crustaceans like shrimp, lobster, crab, etc.,
followed by insects and fungi. Its non-toxic, biodegradable and biocompatible
properties have extended its application in various areas. It has
antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and wound-healing
properties. These properties were determined by their molecular weight and
deacetylation degree. Chitosan is soluble in acidic solutions. It is
non-soluble in neutral and alkaline solvents, making its application limited in
many fields. The chitosan was extracted through chemical and biological
methods. It typically comprises deproteination, demineralization and
deacetylation. The pure chitosan was obtained through a reprecipitation
process. Various techniques such as XRD, SEM and FT-IR are employed for the
characterization of chitosan, which provide insights into its crystallinity,
structure and purity. The different forms of chitosan have been used, which
include powder, solution, flake, fiber, hydrogels, sponges, scaffolds,
membranes, films and nanoparticles. Due to its diverse properties, it has a
significant application in various sectors. It can be used as an antimicrobial
agent, wound dressing, drug delivery, wastewater treatment, dye removal, plant
regulator, bio stimulant, food packaging, animal feed, functional textile,
deodorant, personal care, bioimaging and biosensor, which can be applied in
biomedical, environment, agriculture, food, textile, cosmetics,
pharmaceuticals, etc.
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Pages:6-18
How to cite this article:
Thangarajan Thiyagarajan, Vinitha Devaraju, Muthukrishnan Pallikondaperumal, Rajendran Ramasamy "Chitosan- A versatile biopolymer: Insights into source, extraction process, characterization, properties and its use across fields". International Journal of Biotechnology and Microbiology, Vol 8, Issue 3, 2026, Pages 6-18
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