Chitosan (USP) is a naturally derived, water-soluble polymer obtained from chitin. It is widely used in pharmaceuticals and healthcare products as a binder, coating agent, and excipient. Its biodegradability, biocompatibility, and film-forming ability make it suitable for drug delivery systems, wound care, and dietary supplements, offering versatility for research and industrial applications.
Synonym: Deacetylated chitin, Poly(D-glucosamine)
| Appearance | Off‑white to light yellow powder or flakes |
| Melting Point | ~102.5 °C |
| pH of Liquid, Typical (10% soln) | Not typically specified (solid polymer; pH in solution varies with acid used) |
| Specific Gravity Approx | ~1.0–1.4 g/cm³ (bulk density varies by form) |
| Odor | Odorless |
| Color | Off‑white to light yellow |
| Linear Formula | (C₆H₁₁NO₄)ₙ (poly β‑(1→4)‑2‑amino‑2‑deoxy‑D‑glucan) |
| IUPAC Name | Poly‑β‑(1→4)‑2‑amino‑2‑deoxy‑D‑glucan |
| Formula Weight | Varies widely by polymer chain length; monomer unit ~161.16 g/mol |
| percent purity | Typically ≥ 85 % (USP grade range) |
| Physical Form | Powder or flakes |
| Chemical Name or Material | Chitosan (deacetylated chitin polymer) |
| Content / Assay Percent Range | ~85–98 % (degree of deacetylation / typical USP range) |
Classification of the substance or mixture
GHS Label elements, including precautionary statements
Hazards not otherwise classified (HNOC) or not covered by GHS
GHS Classification in accordance with 29 CFR 1910 (OSHA HCS). For the full text of the H-Statements mentioned in this Section, see Section 16.
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