Alginate fibres

Alginates can be used to create seaweed fibres. Their manufacture relies on the transformation of sodium and calcium alginate: after mixing, the solution is extruded then solidified in an acid medium to form textile fibres. These fibres have remarkable properties: they are hypoallergenic, highly absorbent and can, depending on their form, be non-flammable or soluble in hot water.

They are used in several fields. In textiles, they make it possible to create soft, breathable and biodegradable fabrics, as well as non-woven materials. This process uses renewable resources, little water and few chemicals. Nevertheless, as it remains marginal compared with more conventional production, the manufacturing cost is still high.