Electrospining of biopolymers as an alternative to synthetic plastic has gained significant attention due to raised concerns for the environment. Among the biopolymers that can be used for electrospinning, native chitin, extracted from crustacean shells using the ionic liquid (IL) 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium acetate ([C<sub>2</sub>mim][OAc]) can be electrospun into interconnected fiber networks. Electrospinning of chitin results in high surface area nanofibrous mats which are unique due to the presence of N-acetyl group in chitin structure that can easily be converted into reactive amines and be used for tethering any functionality to the structure. Furthermore, chitin can be electrospun with variety of biopolymers including cellulose to yield composite nano- and microfibrous materials or can be used as a support for applications in catalysis. However, practical application of electrospun chitin and chitin composites requires scale-up. Here, we will present our efforts to develop large scale electrospinning and ultimate applications for the resulting products.

Electrospinning of biopolymers and biopolymeric composites from ionic liquids

254th National Meeting (2017)

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