Chitin derived from shrimps, mushrooms, and other organisms may lead to new 3D-printed, multi-layered polymer coatings to protect soldiers against bullets, lasers, toxic gases, microbes, and other hazards.

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Most famous for being the main component in the exoskeletons of arthropods like crustaceans and insects, chitin is also found in the cellular walls of many other organisms, including nematodes, protozoa, and fungi.

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In recent years, it has found a growing number of applications in agriculture, medicine, and the development of new materials. Now, a team of University of Houston researchers led by Alamgir Karim, Dow Chair Professor of chemical and biomolecular engineering, is looking at how to turn chitin into a bio-based, biodegradable, high-impact coating for military applications.

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Under a US$600,000 grant from the US Department of Defense, the goal is not only to produce lighter, tougher body armor , but […]

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