X-Ray Diffraction Characterization of Chitin Extracted from Oyster Shell

X-ray diffraction (XRD) is an essential method for analyzing the structural characteristics of materials, revealing details about their composition, crystallinity, and molecular arrangement. This project focuses on using XRD to examine chitin extracted from oyster shells, aiming to understand its crystalline structure and evaluate its potential as a sustainable biomaterial. Chitin, a biopolymer found in the exoskeletons of molluscs and the cell walls of fungi, is notable for its mechanical strength, biocompatibility, and biodegradability, making it suitable for various biomedical and industrial uses. Oyster shells, a common by-product of the seafood industry, provide a sustainable source of chitin, offering an eco-friendly extraction option. The research involves extracting chitin from oyster shells through chemical and enzymatic processes, followed by purification and XRD analysis. The high-resolution XRD instrument is used to assess the crystalline structure of chitin by analyzing diffraction patterns caused by X- rays interacting with the chitin’s lattice. This analysis reveals important crystallographic parameters, such as unit cell dimensions, crystallite size, and degree of crystallinity. By comparing these patterns with reference patterns of known chitin forms, the study identifies specific polymorphs in the extracted chitin. The research also investigates how extraction methods, processing conditions, and source variability affect the chitin's structural properties. The goal is to optimize extraction to produce chitin with desirable characteristics for specific applications. The results will enhance understanding of chitin’s structure-property relationships and support the development of chitin-based materials for uses in medical implants, drug delivery, wound dressings, and food packaging, while also promoting sustainable waste management in the seafood industry.