Modification of proteins and polysaccharides using dodecenyl succinic anhydride: Synthesis, properties and applications—A review

Proteins and polysaccharides are among the biopolymers produced by living organisms for their structural integrity, protection, physiological functions, or as reserve energy. These biopolymers are extracted from their natural matrices by humans to fulfil basic as well as convenience needs. The inquisitive human nature, ever-growing demands and resources at disposal have led to copious research in the field of biopolymer modifications. The availability of reactive sites on these biopolymers make them suitable substrates for esterification, etherification, oxidation, epoxidation, N-acylation, alkylation, etc. Dodecenyl succinic anhydride (DDSA) is an esterifying agent that introduces a 12-carbon hydrophobic chain in the structure of the substrate containing suitable reactive sites. The use of DDSA as a modifying agent for biopolymers dates back to the mid-twentieth century. Even today, many biopolymers are explored for modification with DDSA for improved functionality. These modifications are aimed at catering the needs of the paint, pharmaceutical, cosmetic, food and textile industries. This review attempts to systematically compile reported research on the use of DDSA as a biopolymer modifying agent, the various reaction techniques, properties and applications thereof.