Professor, Department of Marine Biology, Vikrama Simhapuri University, Nellore, Andhra Pradesh, India.
Abstract: (25 Views)
Chitin and chitosan, naturally derived biopolymers from crustacean shells and fungal cell walls, have gained significant attention due to their biodegradability, biocompatibility and eco-friendly properties. Their application in agriculture has demonstrated promising results in crop protection, nutrient delivery and soil health improvement. In aquaculture, chitin and chitosan nanoparticles have been explored for disease management, water quality enhancement and sustainable feed supplementation, offering eco-friendly alternatives to conventional treatments. Additionally, their strong adsorption capabilities make them effective in wastewater treatment and pollution control by removing heavy metals and organic pollutants. In the food industry, their antimicrobial, antioxidant and barrier properties contribute to food preservation, extending shelf life and ensuring quality. This review highlights recent advancements in the utilization of chitin and chitosan nanoparticles across these domains, emphasizing their potential as sustainable and multifunctional materials for diverse applications.