Method of preparing water swellable gel from chitin

Abstract

This invention relates to a method of preparing a form of chitin that has consistent shape in the dry form, is treated chemically such that it will swell when exposed to water to form a gel. The gel can be dried to give the dry form. The gel formation upon absorption/swelling in the presence of water and drying to give the dried form is reversible. The extent of swelling can be varied by suitably varying the chemical treatment.