Chitinase might work, e.g. this approach: https://www.researchgate.net/post/Does_anyone_have_a_good_protocol_for_proteinase_K_and_chitinase_digestion

((without using Proteinase K)

You could also use the chemical solvent: ionic liquid 1-butyl-3-methyl-imidazolium chloride ([Bmim]Cl). Source: http://pubs.rsc.org/en/Content/ArticleLanding/2006/GC/b517297g#!divAbstract

By entering chitin in an alkaline environment potassium hydroxide and the boiling point produced a substance is that is soluble in mineral acids. As well as, used from Phosphoric acid solution to dissolve the pectin.

Dear Colleague,

You can find valuable informations especially on the solvents used in the attached files dealing with chitin extraction and quantification in insect and crustacean species. see also the following reference:

SOLTANI N., SOLTANI-MAZOUNI N. & DELACHAMBRE J. 1996 - Evaluation of Triflumuron, a benzoylphenylurea derivative, on Tenebrio molitor pupae: effects on cuticle. J. Appl. Ent., 120: 627-629.

Best regards Pr. N.Soltani

Dear colleague,

See attached the publication referenced above.

Pr. N. Soltani

is dissolved in non aqueous solution include " LiCl (5%)/DMA or LiCl/N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone or CaCl2/MeOH, or hexafluoroisopropyl alcohol.