Extraction and characterization of chitin from Gonepteryx rhamni (Lepidoptera)

Abstract

Because of its nontoxicity, biodegradability, biocompatibility also antitumor, antioxidant, antimicrobial properties chitin is unique natural polymer. It has broad application in biotechnology, medicine, food technologies and other fields. In this study chitin was isolated from male and female of Gonepteryx rhamni (Lepidoptera). Physicochemical properties of chitin were evaluated by SEM, TGA, XRD and elemental analysis. Chitin content of male (10.5%) was recorded slightly higher than female. Degree of acetylation (DA) of female chitin was observed closer to 100% than male chitin, so it can be concluded that purity of female chitin was determined higher than male chitin. Thermal stability of female chitin was observed slightly higher than male chitin. SEM showed that both male and female chitin isolates have chitin nanofiber on the surface. Crystallinities of the chitin isolates from male and female were measured very close to each other. During this study, chitin extraction from male and female of G. rhamni was carried out for the first time. Determined properties of chitin samples could be used for further applications.