The number and sequence of the Mannuronate and Glucuronate residues
shown above vary in the naturally occurring alginate. The associated water
molecules are not shown.
Formula weight
Structural unit: 176.13 (theoretical), 200 (actual average)
Macromolecule : 10,000 - 600,000 (typical average)
Assay
Yields, on the dried basis not less than 20.0% and not more than 23.0% of
carbon dioxide (CO 2 ), equivalent to not less than 91.0% and not more than
104.5% of alginic acid (C 6 H 8 O 6 ) n .
DESCRIPTION White to yellowish brown filamentous, grainy, granular or powdered forms
FUNCTIONAL USES Stabilizer, thickener, gelling agent, emulsifier