component of the cell walls of many rhodophytes and kelps. Alginates have an affinity for water, and so help to slow dessication when the algae are exposed to the air; they are commercially important [..]

a gelatinous extract of brown seaweed used to make a number of products, including toothpaste, beer, various medicines, paper, and frozen foods.

A gelatinous (jelly-like) compound extracted from seaweed used as a gelling agent in foods, textile printing and pharmaceuticals.

  Polysaccharide gelling agent.

A large polymer extracted from seaweed. It is used in medical applications and as a thickener in some foods.

a polysaccharide derived from seaweed which forms a hydrogel when exposed to calcium ions

Salts of alginic acid, a hydrophilic colloidal carbohydrate which is extracted from the cell walls of marine kelp (algae). Calcium, sodium, and ammonium alginates have been used as foam, clot, or gauze for absorbable surgical dressings. Soluble alginates, such as sodium, potassium, and magnesium alginates, form a viscous gel. (12 Dec 1998)

A derivative of marine algae used in mold making and casting; used for small flat items only because of its tendency to tear or rip.

Any salt or ester of alginic acid.