Chitin and chitosan: production, properties and applications

This monograph provides a systematic overview of current data on natural biopolymers - chitin and its derivative chitosan. It examines the sources and methods of production, physicochemical and structural characteristics, as well as the features of modification of these polysaccharides. Particular attention is paid to the polyelectrolyte, gel-forming, sorption and bioactive properties of chitosan, which underlie its wide range of applications. The monograph describes in detail promising areas of application for chitin and chitosan in pharmaceuticals, medicine, the food industry, agriculture, ecology and water purification technology. Examples are given of the encapsulation of bioactive substances, the creation of antimicrobial packaging materials, preparations for lowering cholesterol levels, as well as biodegradable and biocompatible drug delivery systems. The monograph is intended for researchers, postgraduates, students of chemical, biological, medical, environmental and technological disciplines, as well as specialists involved in the development and application of biopolymer materials.