Mucic acid crystals grown from a water-based solution achieved a record-breaking stiffness for an organic crystal.

The University of Illinois team in front of a fermenter at the Integrated Bioprocessing Research Lab. From left: Jeremy Guest, Sarang Bhagwat, Jayne Allen, Somesh Mishra, Benjamin Crosly (back), Vijay ...

Citric acid is a weak organic acid that occurs naturally in produce, such as citrus fruits. It is used in food, cosmetics, and cleaning products. Share on Pinterest vkbhat/Getty Images Citric acid is ...