Polysaccharides

Polysaccharides are abundant natural macromolecular polymers composed of long chains of monosaccharides linked by glycosidic bonds. These biomolecules are essential for energy storage, structural integrity, and various physiological functions in living organisms. They also play critical ecological roles, such as starch serving as an energy reservoir in plants and chitin providing structural support in arthropod exoskeletons. These versatile biomolecules are widely used in various industries, including food technology as thickeners and stabilizers, and in medicine as therapeutic agents. Their eco-friendly properties make them sustainable alternatives to synthetic materials in packaging and cosmetics. However, limitations such as poor mechanical strength and high-water absorption restrict their use in demanding applications. This chapter explores classification, properties, and applications of polysaccharides, along with ongoing research aimed at enhancing their functionality through composites and chemical modifications.