Abstract: One-factor-at-a-time method and response surface methodology were used to optimize the microwave-assisted extraction of highly deacetylated chitosan from Chirocephalus diaphanous eggshell. The optimal extraction conditions for achieving maximum degree of deacetylation of chitosan were as follows: microwave treatment time 33.4 min, ethanol soaking time 86 min, NaOH concentration 57.27%. Under these conditions, chitosan with a degree of deacetylation of 84.12% was obtained from Chirocephalus diaphanous eggshell.

Key words: chitosan, Chirocephalus diaphanous, response surface methodology, microwave, degree of deacetylation