Recent research on biopolymer has focused its efforts to provide technological solutions to current and future challenges in the field of science and technology of materials. The properties of chitosan films have been modified by enzymatic and physical treatments such as the application of radiation, electric pulses, plasma, heat treatments, use of supercritical fluids as well as the formation of multilayer films. These modifications change antimicrobial, physical and chemical properties of chitosan films, and allow developing a wide range of applications in the fields of biomedicine, pharmacology, biotechnology, cosmetic and food industries. The purpose of this review is to present new developments in the field of physical and enzymatic modifications of chitosan films describing the different techniques carried out on the last years.
chitosan; polymers; modified films; food additives