Not available outside of the UK & Ireland.

Analysis Note

The degree of acetylation may be determined by dye binding or titration methods.

Application

Shrimp shell derived chitosan, deacetylated chitin (poly β-1,4-D-glucosamine), may be used as a biocompatible, antibacterial and environmentally friendly polyelectrolyte biomaterial with a variety of applications including uses in water treatment, chromatography, additives for cosmetics, textile treatment for antimicrobial activity, novel fibers for textiles, photographic papers, biodegradable films, biomedical devices, and microcapsule implants for controlled release in drug delivery. It may be derivatized to further expand its uses.

Forms gels with multivalent anions. Gives clear solutions that dry to strong, clear films.

Features and Benefits

Biocompatible, antibacterial and environmentally friendly polyelectrolyte with a variety of applications including water treatment, chromatography, additives for cosmetics, textile treatment for antimicrobial activity, novel fibers for textiles, photographic papers, biodegradable films, biomedical devices, and microcapsule implants for controlled release in drug delivery.

Packaging

10, 25, 100, 500 g in poly bottle

Preparation Note

Prepared by the alkaline deacetylation of chitin obtained from the shells of shrimp (Pandalus borealis). Chitin is manufactured industrially by crushing shrimp shells, then washing the solids with acids to remove inorganic and proteinaceous material. The purified chitin is deacetylated to chitosan by treatment with a strong base such as sodium hydroxide. The resulting chitosan may be further purified by preparation of solutions in acid followed by neutralization and precipitation.

Quality

May contain foreign matter.