Synthesis of high molecular weight chitosan from chitin by mechanochemistry and aging. Issue 12 (16th April 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Di Nardo, Thomas; Hadad, Caroline; Nguyen Van Nhien, Albert; Moores, Audrey
• Is Part Of: Green chemistry. Volume 21:Issue 12(2019)
• Page Start: 3276
• Page End: 3285
• Publication Date: 2019-04-16
• Subjects: Environmental chemistry -- Industrial applications -- Periodicals; Environmental management -- Periodicals; 660
• DOI: 10.1039/c9gc00304e
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1463-9262

Abstract

Abstract : A process based on mechanochemistry and aging under humidity affords high molecular weight chitosan under safe conditions from chitin. Abstract : Chitosan can be obtained from the deacetylation of chitin. This process is however difficult and usually accompanied by depolymerization, affording low molecular weight chitosan. We report a novel path, relying on the combination of mechanochemistry and aging, to yield high molecular weight chitosan with minimal use of energy and solvent. This method is versatile and applicable to a number of chitin sources, including crude crustacean and insect shells, yielding deacetylation up to 98% and remarkably high molecular weights. Chitin deacetylation was studied by magic angle spinning nuclear magnetic resonance and molecular weight was estimated by viscometry. This process affords chitosan in a safer fashion and with less materials and energy usage compared to the classic hydrothermal one.