Chitosan: Structure, Properties and Applications

Abstract

Chitosan is a deacetylated form of chitin which is the second most renewable biopolymer in nature. Chitosan has many features like biocompatibility, biodegradability, non-toxic properties, adsorption and functioning properties which make it promising materials in many applications. This chapter focused on chemical, physical, physicochemical and mechanical properties of chitosan and chitosan-based materials first of all, right after their commercial applications and also, in conclusion, the adsorption capacity and adsorbent applications of chitosan and its derivatives. Finally, new trends and fields about chitosan-based materials were present.