Optimization of conditions for isolating chitin from fish scale waste (Tilapia) based on chemical treatment

Abstract

This research aims to determine the optimal conditions for isolating chitin from fish scales (Tilapia). The salts were removed from the raw mass using HCl 1.5% solution according to the soaking method. Whereas, the proteins were removed using NaOH 3% solution based on ultrasonication technique during three stages at 40 °C, which provided better results than the soaking method, especially with regard to the amount of proteins removed and the value of mass recovered. Finally, the dyes were removed using H₂O₂ 0.36% solution. The yield of chitin was 25.47%, the degree of acetylation was 92.03%, and it was noted that there was a good agreement between the FT-IR spectrum of isolated chitin with the reference spectra.