Synthesis and Characterization of Pectin-Chitosan as Candidate Materials for Slow Release System

Abstract

The polyelectrolyte complex (PEC) is a complex formed between opposite charge particles which have recently attracted attention for their potential for drug delivery applications. In this study, PEC from pectin (anionic species) and chitosan (cationic species) was studied. Pectin and chitosan solutions in 2% v/v acetic acid were mixed in the ratio pectin : Chitosan of 1:1. The difference in characteristics of PEC pectin-chitosan (Pec-Chi) with its original polymer is indicated by functional group analysis using FTIR. Morphology characterization of films were investigated by XRD. The results showed that Pec-Chi adsorbent had better stability and resistance to the acidic environment. Characterization using FTIR showed that the adsorbent has functional groups of amines, carboxyl and hydrogen. Furthermore, XRD data show that the adsorbent was a not crystalline.