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Characterization and Biological Function of Marine Biopolymers

A special issue of International Journal of Molecular Sciences (ISSN 1422-0067). This special issue belongs to the section "Materials Science".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 25 December 2026 | Viewed by 1182

Editor


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Guest Editor
Phycology, Blue Biodiversity and Biotechnology RU, Laboratory of Plant Biotechnology, Ecology and Ecosystem Valorization, URL—CNRST n° 10, Faculty of Sciences, Chouaib Doukkali University, P.O. Box 20, El Jadida M-24000, Morocco
Interests: phycology; marine biotechnology; seaweed polymers.

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Marine resources are increasingly recognized as a valuable source for biopolymer production. Due to their biocompatibility, biodegradability, and non-toxicity, marine-derived biopolymers hold great promise for the development of a wide range of valuable products for the biomedical, food, and environmental sectors. The great versatility of marine-derived biopolymers, their renewable nature, and the possibility of modifying their physical and chemical properties have sparked considerable interest within both industry and the scientific community. A comprehensive characterization of these polymers, including their molecular structure and physico-chemical features, is essential for understanding their biological function and optimizing their applications. This Special Issue aims to highlight the recent advances in the extraction, characterization, and functional properties of marine biopolymers, emphasizing the link between their properties as natural biobased materials and their potential for innovative applications across various sectors. By integrating structural insights and biological function, this Issue underscores the dual importance of marine biopolymers as sustainable, thoroughly characterized, and versatile functional biomaterials.

Dr. Zahira Belattmania
Guest Editor

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Keywords

  • marine-based biopolymers
  • sustainable extractions
  • polymer characterization
  • biological functions
  • marine resources

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Published Papers (1 paper)

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17 pages, 3547 KB  
Article
Valorization of Mussel Shell Waste to Chitin, Chitosan, and Calcium Lactate for Bio-Green-Circular Management
by Chaowared Seangarun, Somkiat Seesanong, Banjong Boonchom, Wimonmat Boonmee, Sirichet Punthipayanon, Nongnuch Laohavisuti and Pesak Rungrojchaipon
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(8), 3627; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27083627 - 18 Apr 2026
Viewed by 861
Abstract
This study presents a green bio-upcycling strategy for converting mussel shell biowaste into three value-added products: chitin, chitosan, and calcium lactate. Mussel shells were treated chemically with lactic acid during demineralization, yielding a solid fraction rich in chitin and a liquid fraction containing [...] Read more.
This study presents a green bio-upcycling strategy for converting mussel shell biowaste into three value-added products: chitin, chitosan, and calcium lactate. Mussel shells were treated chemically with lactic acid during demineralization, yielding a solid fraction rich in chitin and a liquid fraction containing calcium and lactate ions. The solid fraction was sequentially purified by deproteinization and decolorization, then deacetylated to obtain chitosan, while the liquid fraction was evaporated to obtain calcium lactate. Notably, 2.37 g of raw chitin, 2.15 g of purified chitin, and 275.87 g of calcium lactate were obtained from 100 g of mussel shells, demonstrating the efficiency of the process. FTIR spectra revealed characteristic absorption bands corresponding to α-chitin and chitosan functional groups, while XRD patterns indicated the crystalline α-chitin structure and the formation of calcium lactate pentahydrate. TGA demonstrated the high thermal stability of chitin and chitosan and confirmed the presence of crystallization water in calcium lactate. In conclusion, these results confirmed the successful preparation of α-chitin, chitosan, and calcium lactate pentahydrate, with improved purity compared to previous studies. This approach highlights the potential of the green bio-upcycling process of mussel shell waste as a renewable source for the eco-friendly production of biopolymers and calcium salts, supporting sustainable waste management and the development of the Bio-Circular-Green (BCG) economy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Characterization and Biological Function of Marine Biopolymers)
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