Abstract: A process is described for extraction and recovery of chemicals from the shell of various crustacea species. Significant features of the process are determination and use of conditions for extraction which are sufficient to liberate protein from its combination with chitin in the shell matrix and to dissolve it as an alkali proteinate solution while causing minimum alteration to the protein so that products of high nutritional quality can be obtained; the conditions for the extraction of the chitin from the shell matrix and in a useful form; and, the recovery of a calcium compound from the shell matrix.

Abstract: This invention deals with a novel process of manufacturing chitosan from chitin with reduced temperatures, increased reaction rates involving higher alkali-to-solids deacetylation ratios, and a quiescent air-expelled final deacetylation step. Recovery of the alkali is also attainable.

Abstract: This disclosure is concerned with a process for treating chitin under certain moisturized conditions with microwave energy to increase its reactivity in general, and when in appropriate alkali, to accelerate the deacetylation thereof. Highly active chitin products or derivatives are thus produced.

Abstract: This disclosure is concerned with the demineralization of crustacea shells and the like, before or after protein removal therefrom, with sulfurous acid, thus to convert the calcium carbonate of the shell to calcium bisulfite solution which may be separated from the solid residual shell, and regenerating sulfurous acid from the said solution for reuse in the process.

Abstract: This disclosure is concerned with the use of chitosan as a coating or packing in fluid filtration and other systems to provide a high ratio of surface-to-volume of reactive material that exposes a maximum number of reactive amino groups for rapid reaction with fluid media passed therethrough.