Alginate Fibre Structure and Properties
topic
Properties: tenacity 1.0-2.5 g/den (dry), 0.5-1.0 g/den (wet, loses 50-60% strength), elongation 15-25%, moisture absorbency 200-300% (exceptional), high water retention, calcium ion exchange capacity creating gel structure, biocompatible, non-toxic, hemostatic (promotes clotting), but soluble in alkaline solutions (pH >10) and sodium-containing solutions, limiting textile applications.
Role
Exceptional absorbency and ion-exchange properties ideal for wound care (absorbing exudate, maintaining moist environment), while solubility in body fluids enables novel applications in dissolvable textiles and medical implants.