Effect of the concentration of glycerin in the performance of chitosan membranes utilized in aqueous phase permeation

We have carried out the synthesis of a series of chitosan-based membranes by casting solution method. The membranes were synthesized from commercial chitosan and glycerin as a plasticizer, varying the concentration of glycerin to determine the concentration that allows the formation of membranes with the best physicochemical properties to retentate permeating test molecules. Formed membranes were cross-linked with sulfuric acid, and tested in the permeation of sodium chloride, saccharose and a whey protein. The physicochemical characteristics of the membrane were evaluated by the water swelling factor, viscous molecular weight and DSC. The passage of the tested molecules through the membrane and other characteristics were modified with glycerin content in the forming solution.

Keywords: Chitosan, Membrane, Glycerin, Cross-linking, Permeability .