Natural β-chitin-protein complex film obtained from waste razor shells for transdermal capsaicin carrier

In the literature, the produced β-chitin samples are in powder or flake forms but there is no natural β-chitin based film. Also, the commercially available transdermal patches are produced from synthetic polymers. In this regard, we produced natural β-chitin-protein complex (CPC) film from the waste shells of Ensis spp. The obtained natural film was characterized by FTIR, TGA and SEM. Additionally, swelling, thickness, contact angle and antioxidant tests were done to learn more about the films. After production and characterization of the film, capsaicin, which is commonly used for pain relief was loaded into the film. The loading capacity was recorded as 5.79%. The kinetic models were studied in three different pH, then the results were fitted with Higuchi model with high correlation at pH 7.4. After considering all the obtained results, the capsaicin loaded CPC film may be an alternative candidate for transdermal patch instead of the synthetic ones. •Production and characterization of natural β-chitin-protein film from razor shells•Capsaicin was loaded into the film successfully.•Loading of capsaicin highly increased the antioxidant activity.•Release kinetic was fitted with Higuchi model with high correlation.•β-chitin-protein complex film can be an attractive patch for further studies.