Solvent optimization, synthesis, and characterization of Chitosan from snail shells (Achatina fulica)

Chitosan can be produced from chitin sourced from animal shells, one of which is the snail (Achatina fulica). Achatina fulica is an animal that becomes a pest and disease for plants and can reduce the quality of harvested products. However, the shell of this pest can be used because it contains much chitin, around 70% - 80%. Based on several studies, the isolation of chitin from the shell of Achatina fulica has varied ash content, so a study is needed to optimize it. This study isolated chitin by studying the solvent concentration at the demineralization stage. The solvent concentrations used were 1, 1.5, and 2 N. The best result was shown in isolation with a solvent concentration of 1.5 N with an ash content of 56.78%. Chitin was then characterized by Fourier Transform Infrared (FT-IR). Furthermore, chitin was synthesized into chitosan, yielding 45.77% yield with a degree of deacetylation of 85.6% and characterized.