Chitosan forms gels with multivalent anions. Gives clear solutions that dry to strong, clear films. It is biocompatible, antibacterial and environmentally friendly polyelectrolyte with a variety of applications including water treatment, chromatography, additives for cosmetics, textile treatment for antimicrobial activity, novel fibers for textiles, photographic papers, biodegradable films, biomedical devices, and microcapsule implants for controlled release in drug delivery.