Harnessing the power of carbohydrates: Chitosan and starch-based nanocomposites for sustainable developments

Recently, macromolecules especially carbohydrates have attracted a lot of attention because of their sustainability, biocompatibility, and adaptability to a wide range of applications. Two carbohydrates, Chitosan, and Starch, have shown great promise in the production of nanocomposites (NCs), which can fundamentally alter healthcare technologies. This review article emphasizes the unique characteristics of Chitosan and Starch, including their abundance, non-toxicity, and biodegradability, which make them excellent options for sustainable materials in the medical industry. The progress made in the fabrication of biopolymers-based NCs, emphasizing the use of different nanofillers—nanoparticles, nanotubes, and nano-sheets in enhancing the mechanical, thermal, and functional properties of Chitosan and Starch-based matrix is discussed in detail. The recent trends in synthesis and applications of Chitosan, Starch, and metal oxide nanoparticles-based NCs in the pharmaceutical and biomedical industries were discussed in detail. This review article is crucial to advance the development of carbohydrate-based sustainable materials, reduce environmental impact, improve nanocomposite technology, and industrial innovation. We have pointed out any gaps in the literature and suggested recommendations for future research in the directions of sustainable developments, such as enhancing the characteristics of Chitosan, starch, and metal oxide nanoparticles-based nanocomposite materials or creating new materials. This review article opens new avenues in natural polymer-based NCs used in different medical sectors.