Chitin‐Based Organic Networks: An Integral Part of Cell Wall Biosilica in the Diatom <i>Thalassiosira pseudonana</i>

Abstract

Inner workings: Diatom cell walls are outstanding examples of natural hybrid materials and exhibit interesting mechanical and optical properties. Removal of the biosilicates in the cell walls of T. pseudonana with NH4F proves that the cell walls contain an internal, organic network consisting of crosslinked chitin fibers as well as other organic components (see picture).