Kinetics and efficiency of chitosan reacetylation

► We developed a model to study the efficiency and kinetics of chitosan reacetylation. ► Reaction rates for chitosan reacetylation are reported for the first time. ► Conditions to maximize the reaction efficiency are identified. ► The reaction efficiency is limited by polymer ionisation, not by steric hindrance. ► Presence of methanol limits the ionization of chitosan during the reaction.