Efeito da irradiação gama na quitosana

Abstract

Films are preformed structures, independent, that are used to wrap food after processing, increasing their shelf life and enhancing its bright and attractive appearance. They are prepared from biological materials as an alternative to the plastic synthetic containers to improve the quality of the environment. Chitosan is a biodegradable polymer composed of β- (1-4) linked D-glucosamine (deacetylated unit) and N-acetyl-D-glucosamine (acetylated unit). It is produced commercially by deacetylation of chitin, which is a structural component of the exoskeleton of crustaceans. She is able to form films and edible and/or biodegradable coatings. This work aimed evaluate the effect of different doses of gamma radiation (0, 5, 10 and 15 kGy) in the chitosan powder, filmogenic solution and in biofilms in concentrations of 1 and 2% of chitosan, in their optical, morphological, rheological and mechanical properties. The films were characterized by the thickness, color, opacity, scanning electron microscopy and mechanical properties. The different treatments significantly influenced their properties, promoting an improvement.