definition
Chitin is “a polysaccharide found abundantly in nature. Chitin forms the basis of the hard shells of crustaceans, such as crab, lobster, and shrimp. The exoskeleton of insects is also chitinous, and the cell walls of certain fungi contain this substance.”[1]
DISCOVERY
The French chemist Henri Braconnot discovered[2] chitin in 1810. He isolated it after boiling several different kinds of mushroom (for example, Volvariella volvacea) in alkaline water.
DISCOVERER
Here is a portrait[3] of Henri Braconnot:
[ux_image_box img=”1081″ image_width=”40″ link=”https://www.magnoliabox.com/products/henri-braconnot-kw2657634″ target=”_blank”]
1780-1855
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