Chemical modification of inulin, a valuable renewable resource, and its industrial applications

Biomacromolecules. 2001 Spring;2(1):1-16. doi: 10.1021/bm005642t.

Abstract

Inulin, the polydisperse reserve polyfructose from plants such as Cichorium intybus (chicory), has been chemically modified in several ways to obtain industrially important biodegradable compounds. This review provides an insight on the different types of modification (neutral, anionic, and cationic modification as well as cross-linking and slow release applications) and describes its differences from starch and cellulose chemistry. It also highlights the applications of various compounds cited in the literature.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Absorbable Implants
  • Delayed-Action Preparations / chemistry
  • Drug Carriers / chemistry
  • Inulin / analogs & derivatives*
  • Inulin / chemical synthesis
  • Inulin / chemistry*
  • Molecular Structure

Substances

  • Delayed-Action Preparations
  • Drug Carriers
  • Inulin