Synthesis of Nano‐Chitosan Using Agricultural Waste

Abstract

Industrial agro-waste has the potential to harm soil and groundwater, which is causing significant environmental pollution. The slower degradation is a result of the increased waste volume over time. Interestingly, these wastes proved to have the potential to be useful in various applications such as composts, adsorbents for pollutant removal, and organic fertilizers (chitosan), which will gradually reduce negative environmental impacts. Waste products, including shrimp shells, squid, crab, and lobster, are used to synthesize nano-chitosan (N-acetyl derivative) of chitin. The superior polymeric cationic nature, non-toxicity, and biodegradability of nano-chitosan make them a suitable choice for use. They are commonly used as promoters of growth in agriculture, immobilizing enzymes and providing biomedical controlled drug delivery through encapsulation or carrier. This review outlines chitosan traits like the structural, physical, and chemical. The synthesis of chitosan nanoparticles is also described in detail. Chitosan nanoparticles are also employed in various contexts. Nano-chitosan applications comprise plant growth-promoting agents, drug transporter, encapsulation, antimicrobial agent, and plant preserver. In addition, its distinct traits also make it useful in wastewater treatment, serving as a fungicide, wound healer, and framework for engineering tissue. Nano-chitosan is an efficient solution for toxic chemical usage in various industries. Thus, production of nano-chitosan nanoparticles is advantageous in most industries.