Production and characterization of a nanocomposite of highly crystalline nanowhiskers from biologically extracted chitin in enzymatic poly(ε-caprolactone)

A nano-composite from biologically obtained chitin nanofillers homogenously dispersed in a poly(epsilon-caprolactone) matrix was successfully achieved by an ultrasonication-assisted non-toxic and non-aqueous methodology. For this purpose, biological chitin was obtained from lactic acid fermentation of shrimp wastes and converted into chitin whiskers by acidic hydrolysis in a novel process at low temperature (4 degrees C) that enhanced the distribution and yield. Additionally, the polyester matrix was enzymatically produced in a non-toxic compressed fluid (1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane at 25 bar and 65 degrees C) medium. The homogeneous distribution of the nanofiller in the matrix was corroborated by confocal and atomic force microscopies. Films of the nanocomposite were physicochemically characterized to assess its adequate properties. Additionally, the qualitative viability of human fibroblasts and osteoblasts cells was studied on the produced nanocomposite films showing good bio-compatibility.