Stabilization of Argan Oil Nanoemulsions Using Chitosan Extracted from Pink Shrimp Shells

Abstract

This study investigates the use of chitosan, extracted from pink shrimp shells, as a stabilizer for argan oil nanoemulsions. Chitosan was obtained through demineralization, deproteination, bleaching, deacetylation, and purification, then characterized through potentiometric titration, viscometry, X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and purity assessments. The resulting chitosan was used to stabilize nanoemulsions formulated with extra-virgin argan oil and a nonionic surfactant using the phase inversion composition (PIC) method. The stability of the nanoemulsion was assessed through light scattering, zeta potential, viscosity, and pH measurements. The extracted chitosan exhibited high purity, a deacetylation degree of 88.34%, a molecular weight of 408.809 kDa, and a crystalline index of 66.36%. Chitosan significantly improved nanoemulsion stability, maintaining droplet integrity for over six months at 40 °C. Higher chitosan concentrations increased droplet size, viscosity, and stability, indicating strong polymer adsorption. These findings demonstrate the potential of shrimp waste-derived chitosan as a sustainable stabilizer for argan oil nanoemulsions, promoting effective bioactive compound delivery and environmental sustainability.