Ques.5. Discuss the economic importance of Alginates
Ans. Alginate derivatives and alginic acid are extracted from the cell wall of some brown algae. Different genera are used in different part of the world, the important among which are Laminaria, Macrocystis, Durvillea, Ascophyllum, Ecklonia, Fucus, Cystoseria, Eisenla, etc.
Algin, with formula of (C6H3O6), is a carbohydrate originating in the cell wall. Alginic acid occurs in the middle lamella and primary walls of some members of Phaeophyceae.
Alginates are used in rubber tyre-industry, paints, ice-creams and also in the preparation of flame-proof fabrics and plastic articles. For stopping the bleeding effectively, alginic acid is used. Alginic acid derivatives are also used in the preparation of soups, creams, sauces, etc.