Crystallization of Polysaccharides

Abstract

Polysaccharides, known as the most abundant biopolymers in the world, are macromolecules of carbohydrate nature obtained by enchainment of monosaccharides through glycosidic bonds. The biodegradability behavior and the mechanical properties of polysaccharides are significantly controlled by their crystalline content and the crystallite size of crystals. The crystalline structure of these polymers stem in their chemical structure and inter-/intramolecular interactions. Semi-crystalline polysaccharides have been utilized to reinforce the polymer composites for various applications ranging from packaging uses to biomedical applications. This chapter discusses the crystallization behavior of polysaccharides and technique used in measuring their crystallization. Applications of crystalline polysaccharides for various uses, especially packaging and biomedical, are specifically outlined.