Valorization of Crustacean Shells: Preparation, Characterization, and Chemical Modification of Nano-Chitin Biopolymer Membrane for Application in Water Purification

Shrimp and crab shells are the most promising and viable source of raw material for the manufacturing of chitin and its derivatives. In-depth understanding of the biological properties of chitin and scientific advancements in the field of nanotechnology have enabled the development of high-performance chitin nanomaterials. Nanoscale chitin is of great economic value as a functional and reinforcement material for a wide range of applications including water purification. The use of nano-chitin to produce (bio) nanocomposites offers a good opportunity to prepare membrane materials with enhanced functional and structural properties. Chitosan-based membranes are found to be effective in water purification for the removal of pollutants like organic wastes, heavy metals, antibiotics, pathogenic microbes and acid waste. These membranes are environmentally friendly and can be used as a method to reduce humic acid waste from the aquatic environment. This review focuses on the preparation, characterization and chemical modification of nano chitin membrane and its application for water purification and water treatment.