Optimal conditions for synthesis of polyol-functionalized chitosan particles

Adsorbents functionalized with polyol are considered to be effective for the removal of boron from aqueous solutions. In this work, polyol-functionalized chitosan particles were successfully synthesized. Batch experiments were conducted for the determination of the optimal conditions for the highest degree of gluconated groups being grafted to chitosan substrate. The results suggested that acetic acid is the most appropriate solvent for the dissolution of chitosan powder. Furthermore, an efficient mole ratio of 1:3 between chitosan and D-(+) - glucono - 1,5 lactone (DGL) was determined. The maximum level of gluconated groups grafted to chitosan was attained at a reaction temperature of 110°C and a reaction time of 24h. These optimized parameters exhibit potential for practical implementations in the boron removal from aqueous solutions.