Characterization of chitin from Illex argentinus squid pen

beta-Chitin from Illex argentinus squid pens was isolated by using chemical methods and the pens composition determined. The structural characteristics of beta-chitin were identified with infrared (IR), solid-state cross-polarization/magic-angle-spinning (CP-MAS) C-13 NMR spectroscopy and X-ray analysis. The viscosity average molecular weight M-v, calculated from the intrinsic viscosity was above 2 x 10(6) g mol(-1). The stiffness of the macromolecule was analyzed using the Yamakawa and Fujii theory for wormlike cylinders. (c) 2008 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.