Biopolymer composites based on lignin and microcrystalline chitosan

The article presents method of extracting lignin from hardwood and softwood after chemical treatment. Lignin fractions were extracted from black liquid (the by-product of pulp and paper industry), in a different reaction environment. Biopolymer composites were obtained by combining extracted lignin fraction and microcrystalline chitosan, which can be used as preparations for innovative biopolymer materials that are applicable in medical and hygienic products. The studies were performed in order to evaluate MCCh/Lignin composites to suitability to construction of dressing materials in the form of sponges. The MCCh/Lignin composites were tested for different properties: mechanical, sorption and absorption. The obtained lignin fractions and MCCh/Lignin composites were characterized by different structures and chemical purity as confirmed by FTIR spectra.