SYNTHESIS AND CHARACTERIZATION OF ETHER-TYPE CHITIN DERIVATIVES

Novel 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 C-13 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.