Summary
This review examines the structure, characterisation, and extraction methodologies for keratin sourced from animal by-products, with emphasis on its application potential in polymer science. The authors synthesise evidence on chemical and physical extraction techniques and discuss how keratin properties vary with source material and processing conditions. The work positions keratin as a potentially valuable valorisation pathway for animal processing waste streams.
Regional applicability
The findings are relevant to UK livestock processing industries seeking to maximise value from by-products and reduce waste disposal costs, particularly in poultry, wool, and leather sectors. Application of keratin in advanced polymers aligns with UK circular economy and biomaterials policy objectives.
Key measures
Extraction yield and efficiency; keratin molecular structure and composition; polymer properties and performance; applications in biomaterials
Outcomes reported
The study reviewed extraction methods, structural characterisation techniques, and potential applications of keratin derived from animal processing by-products such as feathers, wool, horns and hooves. It synthesised literature on keratin's physicochemical properties and current and emerging uses in polymer materials and biomedical applications.
Topic tags
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