Extraction and Physicochemical Characterization of an Environmentally Friendly Biopolymer: Chitosan for Composite Matrix Application

Chitosan, which is a derivative of chitin, particularly popular due to its biodegradable and renewable nature. However, the properties chitosan can be inconsistent extraction process natural origin, poses challenge use in composite materials as matrix. The tuned by controlling degree deacetylation (the extent acetyl groups are removed from chitin form chitosan) molecular weight. This paper presents detailed study on characterization shrimp shells. structural thermal mechanical were studied using several techniques: Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, thermogravimetric analysis differential scanning calorimetry. intrinsic viscosity determined various methods. results showed an average 77%. films exhibited high tensile strength 43.9 MPa elongation at break 3.14%. revealed that had glass transition temperature 88 °C maximum degradation 320 °C. findings this research could contribute development chitosan-based with improved properties, leading wider adoption future for matrix application. simple efficient method used purification shells makes it cost-effective eco-friendly alternative synthetic polymers.