查看文章

Chitin and chitosan are polysaccharides found in nature, insolubles in water and organic solvents belonging to biomaterials. They are found in various sources such as algae, fungi, and the exoskeletons of arthropods. The first reports to be reported about in 1811 were chitin and chitosan on in 1859 and today are quite Relevant due to its wide range of applications including cosmetic field, environmental, food, pharmaceutical, dental and medical. The countries that top the ranking of the largest investments in research and production related to chitin and chitosan are Japan, followed by the United States, are together the leading researchers, producers and consumers of these polymers. Important features of these polysaccharides reinforce the need for further research for its use as biodegradability, biocompatibility and low toxicity. Thus, increasingly must invest in research on chitin and chitosan in order to provide a better quality of life using natural materials and without harm to the environment.