A novel synthesis for the incorporation of vinyl groups into the bio-polymer xylan is presented. For derivatization the cyclic organic carbonate 4-vinyl-1,3-dioxolan-2-one was used in DMSO under alkaline conditions. As a result xylans containing vinyl functionalities are obtained. This is increasing the reactivity, for example for radical induced reactions. Derivatization was carried out at different temperatures and reaction times. Products were characterized regarding their degree of substitution, molar substitution and tendencies for homopolymerization by C-13 NMR-, HSQC-NMR-, and FTIR-spectroscopy. (C) 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.