Biodegradable deacylated nanochitin for active delivery in cleansing products

Overview

Deacylated nanochitin is a groundbreaking biodegradable nanomaterial derived from natural chitin, specifically engineered for active delivery in cleansing products. This innovative material is characterized by its high cationic charge and nanoscale dimensions, allowing for effective deposition and film formation on both hydrophilic and hydrophobic surfaces such as skin and hair. Produced from renewable resources like seafood waste, it offers an eco-friendly alternative to synthetic polyquaterniums, aligning with sustainability goals by being fully biodegradable within 60 days.

Technical specifications

• Tunable Surface Charge: Charge density adjustable from 1.0 to 6.2 mmol/g at pH 4–5.5.
• Production Process: Scalable, water-based process capable of producing 200 g per batch, with potential for kilogram-scale production.
• Compatibility: Stable in mild surfactant systems and enhances retention of actives in rinse-off formulations.
• Biodegradability: Fully decomposes within 60 days, environmentally safe.
• Applications: Ideal for use in skin and hair care products where strong deposition and active delivery are required.

Technology readiness level

Currently at TRL 2, with a clear pathway to TRL 4–5. The technology is undergoing optimization for charge density and particle size to enhance deposition performance. Future validation steps include formulation into model surfactant systems, deposition testing, biodegradability evaluation, and techno-economic analysis to assess scale-up feasibility for pilot production.