Abstract: The reaction of chitosan with 2,3-epoxypropyl trimethylammonium chloride in neutral condition gave 2-hydroxyl-3-trimethyl(ammonio)propyl chitosan chloride. The effects of reaction time on the wetting ability were studied. The chitosan derivatives show good hygroscopic property and moisture retentiveness like hyaluronic acid. They have good solubility in water and good compatibility with non-ionic and cationic surfactants.

Key words: chitosan quaternary ammonium salt, chitosan derivative, hygroscopic property, moisture retentiveness