Chitin-based pulps: Structure-property relationships and environmental sustainability

Luiz G. Greca (Corresponding Author), Ainara Azpiazu, Guillermo Reyes, Orlando J. Rojas (Corresponding Author), Blaise L. Tardy, Erlantz Lizundia (Corresponding Author)

Research output: Contribution to journalArticleScientificpeer-review

5 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

The deconstruction and valorization of chitinous biomass from crustaceans is a promising route for sustainable bioproduct development alternative to petroleum-based materials. However, chitin nanocrystal and chitin nanofibril isolation from crustacean shells is often subjected to extensive processing, compromising their environmental and cost sustainability. To address the sustainability challenge that chitin valorization presents, herein we introduce a mild fibrillation route to generate “chitin pulp”; where a careful control of the macro- and micro-fibrillated chitin with protein and mineral components yields tailored properties. Films produced from protein-rich chitin pulp showed ultimate strength of up to 93 ± 7 MPa. The surface energy and wetting behavior, going from hydrophilic to nearly-hydrophobic, could be tailored as a function of pulp composition. Life cycle assessment of the protein-rich chitin pulps demonstrated that the global warming potential of chitin pulp is reduced by 2 to 3 times when compared to chitin nanocrystals. Overall, this work presents a new and potentially scalable route for the generation of chitin-based materials having a reduced environmental footprint compared to nanochitins and chitosan, thus opening a new route for the valorization of chitin beyond nanochitin for the development of environmentally and economically sustainable materials.

Original languageEnglish
Article number121561
JournalCarbohydrate Polymers
Volume325
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Feb 2024
MoE publication typeA1 Journal article-refereed

Keywords

  • Bioeconomy
  • Chitin
  • Environmental impact
  • Green chemistry
  • Life cycle assessment
  • Pulp

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Chitin-based pulps: Structure-property relationships and environmental sustainability'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this