Synthesis and characterization of ether‐type chitin derivatives

Abstract

AbstractNovel ether‐type chitin derivatives were synthesized by reacting alkali salts of chitin with 1‐chloropropane, propylene oxide and 3‐chloro‐1,2‐propanediol to prepare propylchitin (PPC), hydroxypropylchitin (HPC) and dihydroxypropylchitin (DHPC), respectively. The structures of these chitin derivatives were confirmed by FT‐IR and solid state CP/MAS 13C NMR spectrometry. The substituents are introduced primarily at the C6 position of the glucosamine unit in chitin, with a degree of substitution of approx. 30–50%. The three chitin derivatives are soluble in weakly acidic aqueous solutions, DHPC even in pure water.