Chitosan Cross-Linked Pentasodium Tripolyphosphate Micro/Nanoparticles Produced by Ionotropic Gelation

Abstract

Chitosan cross-linked pentasodium tripolyphosphate particles were produced by ionotropic gelation. The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of the molar mass and deacetylation degree of chitosan and of the concentration of pentasodium tripolyphosphate in the production of chitosan micro/nanoparticles. The obtained charge ratio (R +/-), mean particle size, surface electrical charge, polydispersity index, and tendency of particle aggregation were selected as dependent variables. Results demonstrated that stable particles exhibited a high zeta potential value, between +62 and +68 mV. Particles were produced in different size ranges controlling the R +/- between the positively charged chitosan and negatively charged pentasodium tripolyphosphate. Chitosan micro/nanoparticles were successfully prepared via the ionic gelation method controlling R +/-, therefore the association of an active ingredient to a micro/nanoparticle allows the molecule to intimately interact with specific structures, to overcome barriers and to prolong its residence time in the target. Chitosan cross-linked pentasodium tripolyphosphate particles are expected to be a good approach for active ingredients formulation in the agrofood sector and related industries.