Enzymatic Modification of Chitosan
Chitosan, a derivative of chitin, can be obtained from waste crab shells and has unique physical and chemical properties which can be employed in a variety of applications. Despite its potential, chitosan is not being effectively exploited because unfavorable market forces are not encouraging – chitosan's high cost limits development of new products while the low profit margins of existing products do not justify improved (and cheaper) production methods. This project will explore a new technology which will allow production of chitosan precisely tailored to meet emerging needs for medical, industrial or manufacturing uses. To position chitosan for exploiting new applications, it will be necessary to demonstrate that its chemical, biological and mechanical properties can be adapted to such applications. Toward these ends, Gregory Payne will use specific enzymatic reactions in the laboratory to produce modified chitosans, and test their utility in various applications. In the long run, successful applications of chitosan will benefit seafood processors who are now faced with disposal costs and potential new businesses that can make innovative use of this valuable material.
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Gregory F. Payne
Chemical and Biochemical Engineering
University of Maryland, Baltimore County
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