Investigation of Biomaterial Characteristics of Chitosan Produced from Crab Shells

Abstract Chitosan is a biomaterial that can be obtained from certain parts of aquatic fauna like scales and shells. They are cheap, readily available and environment-friendly complexing agents for heavy metals. In this study, crab shell was used as a source of chitosan and compared with commercial chitosan. The yield was 22.75% and 71% degree of de-acetylation. Solubility test showed that it will dissolve within 30 minutes in 0.1 M HCl. The FTIR indicated the presence of –OH functional group at wavelength 1350 cm-1and R-NH2 at 3450 cm-1. SEM revealed that the locally developed chitosan has a rough surface characterized with holes, and has a porous spongy structure. Electron Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS) was used to examine the presence of elements on the chitosan. Results showed the presence of C, N, O and Na. Usually, Hydrogen is usually present in organic materials but EDS cannot detect its’ presence. XRD revealed a low crystallinity of the chitosan obtained.