At present, this polymer and its water-soluble derivative (chitosan) are only used in a few industrial chemical fields, such as cosmetics, textiles, water treatment and biomedicine. Therefore, scientists say its potential is enormous.
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Utilization of shrimp shell nutrition
Protein is an excellent animal feed. For example, shrimp shells contain all essential amino acids, and their nutritional value can be comparable to that of soybean rice. At present, these protein can't be used because it was destroyed in the process of processing. However, with the rapid development of animal husbandry, crustacean shells from Southeast Asia can be transformed into animal feed rich in protein. According to the forecast of the World Bank, its annual market value exceeds 10 billion US dollars.
Calcium carbonate is widely used in pharmacy, agriculture, construction and paper industry. At present, it mainly comes from geological sources such as marble and limestone. Although these sources are extremely rich, they may contain heavy metals that are difficult to remove. Calcium carbonate in these shells can be better absorbed by the human body, for example, as a pharmaceutical ingredient. Perhaps pills from food are more acceptable than pills from rocks.
People's Daily Online-Scientists believe that shrimp shells and crab shells are of great value as a renewable resource.