Recent advances in chitosan-based materials for sustainable environmental remediation: design, mechanisms and applications - mini review

Abstract

Chitosan-based materials are widely investigated as sustainable adsorbents for environmental remediation due to their biodegradability, abundance, and functional versatility. This review summarises recent advances (2015–2025) in the use of chitosan and its derivatives for the removal of organic and inorganic pollutants from aqueous systems. The correlation of material structure, modification strategies, and removal efficiency are discussed, focusing on adsorption, chelation, and flocculation mechanisms. Special attention is given to hybrid and bio-integrated systems that enhance treatment efficiency through synergistic effects. Key challenges, such as limited stability, reduced performance in complex matrices, and scalability barriers, are critically evaluated. Regeneration, reusability, and life-cycle considerations are also addressed. The findings highlight the need for more application-oriented and system-level methods in future research by highlighting both the promise and present limits of chitosan-based materials. The findings indicate that chitosan-based materials demonstrate both potential and existing limitations. Future investigations should concentrate on application- and system-level approaches.