Synthesis and applications of Chitosan: A contemporary macromolecule

Most of the fisheries involve disposal of the shell wastes from the crustaceans like shrimp, crab, pods, lobster, and squid. Deposition of these wastes for longer extent and in excess amount makes it a causative agent for pollution irrespective of their biodegradability. Importantly, the most useful biopolymer Chitosan can be derived from these wastes and exploited for various applications due to its unique properties. The greater effects on the applications are imposed by the structure of Chitosan and the degree of deacetylation. Also, the reactivity of Chitosan enables and facilitates various kinds of beneficial reactions. This chapter deals about various sources and attributes of Chitosan with a special note on their recent applications.