One novel application of algal alginates may also be applicable to microbial polymers. Calcium alginate fibre can be made by wet spinning, using a solution of sodium alginate passed into a bath of calcium chloride solution. The calcium alginate filaments are washed to remove excess calcium; they are of moderate strength but are susceptible to moisture. They can be manufactured into wound dressings, which absorb fluid from wound exudates, are non-irritant and haemostatic. The dressing can finally be removed easily and painlessly without damaging the scar tissues and causing further trauma. Microbial alginate with appropriate composition could be used in place of algal products, but there is also potential for developments of mixed and other new products with novel properties. This is seen in the first commercial use of bacterial cellulose in novel wounddressing products, forming an artificial ‘skin’ over serious burns.