The state-of-the-art on Chitosan: Historical Perspectives and Non-thermal Modification Technologies for Sustainable Packaging Films

Abstract

Chitosan has garnered a significant attention in the field of polymer science over the decades, due to the associated characteristics features such as biodegradability, antimicrobial property, and film-forming abilities. With the increasing concerns, extensive research has been conducted to enhance the functional properties of chitosan through various modification techniques.Recently, modification of chitosan-based material using non-thermal technologies has drawn attention due to its ability to improve mechanical strength, barrier properties, and bioactivity without compromising the environmental sustainability. This review discusses the historical discovery and development of chitin and chitosan and further emphasizes the growing significance in biomaterial science. A key focus of this study is on applying non-thermal modification technologies such as cold plasma, irradiation, high pressure processing, ultrasonication, pulsed electric field, electrospinning, and others for modification of chitosan-based materials for its application in active and intelligent packaging systems, shelf-life extensions, thereby, aligning with the principles of green chemistry. Non-thermal modification technologies significantly enhance the structural and functional properties of chitosan films, making them a viable alternative to conventional plastic packaging. Mechanical property, antimicrobial efficacy, oxygen barrier properties, and thermal stability of chitosan are among the key benefits and the proposed material has been successfully used as food packaging material for the preservation of fresh produce and for increasing the shelf life of several types of food products. This approach not only supports the transition