DEVELOPMENT OF CHEMICAL TECHNOLOGIES FOR NEW BIODEGRADABLE HYDROGELS BASED ON CHITOSAN

Abstract

The primary objective of this study was to develop novel biodegradable hydrogels based on chitosan and alginate with controlled moisture-release properties for smart packaging applications. The research comprehensively investigated the physicochemical properties of the hydrogels, including their mechanical strength, biodegradability, and effects on the shelf life of model products (carrots and ascorbic acid tablets). The hydrogels were synthesized using chitosan, sodium alginate, glutaraldehyde, and calcium chloride. Experimental methods encompassed swelling degree determination, mechanical property analysis, biodegradability assessment, and the evaluation of the hydrogels’ effects on product moisture content, color stability, and microbial contamination. Key findings revealed the exceptional swelling capacity of chitosan-alginate hydrogels (1500% in distilled water), making them highly effective for moisture regulation. The mechanical properties were found to be equally impressive, with a tensile strength of 1.2 MPa and an elongation at break of 180%. Biodegradability reached 70% after 28 days, confirming their environmental compatibility. The hydrogels maintained carrot moisture at 68% after 28 days, limited color change (ΔE=14.2), and reduced microbial contamination to 10⁵ CFU/g. In pharmaceutical applications, the hydrogels preserved 84% of ascorbic acid content in tablets over the same period. Future research directions include optimizing hydrogel composition to enhance mechanical strength and biodegradability and conducting real-world storage condition trials. It is also necessary to develop modified hydrogel variants with additional functionalities, such as antimicrobial protection and controlled release of active compounds. These advancements will broaden the hydrogels’ application potential across food processing, agriculture, and pharmaceutical industries.