Abstract: The present invention relates to biodegradable hydrophobic composite materials and a process for the preparation of said hydrophobic biodegradable materials from the seaweed polysaccharides through grafting reaction with vinylated monomers e.g. vinyl acetate. The said composites can be used as a substitute for synthetic ropes for varied applications including seaweed cultivation in the open sea. The results of cultivation experiments showed that ropes are suitable for cultivation of seaweeds in the sea environment, and exhibit higher biomass yield as compared to synthetic ropes. The prepared composites are very flexible and can be used for making handles for carry bags and for the preparation of biodegradable designs, bowls, pots, jars, gift items, stud caps and bracelets.

Abstract: The invention relates to an integrated process for the production of 5-hydroxymethyl furfural (HMF), K2SO4, levulinic acid and formic acid from ?-carrageenan, the latter being obtained from fresh Kappaphycus alvarezii seaweed biomass after expelling the juice. Mg(HSO4)2 was used in HMF synthesis, with co-production of galactose. The aqueous stream after HMF extraction was treated with the seaweed juice which process facilitated recovery of K2SO4 in pure form. The galactose may be utilised for synthesis of levulinic acid and formic acid before or after K2SO4 recovery or, alternatively, utilised for other purposes. Catalysts required in the synthetic reactions are generated in the process itself while the process energy required is met out of additional supplies of the seaweed biomass which is subjected to combustion/gasification.

Abstract: The present invention relates to biodegradable hydrophobic composite materials and a process for the preparation of said hydrophobic biodegradable materials from the seaweed polysaccharides through grafting reaction with vinylated monomers e.g. vinyl acetate. The said composites can be used as a substitute for synthetic ropes for varied applications including seaweed cultivation in the open sea. The results of cultivation experiments showed that ropes are suitable for cultivation of seaweeds in the sea environment, and exhibit higher biomass yield as compared to synthetic ropes. The prepared composites are very flexible and can be used for making handles for carry bags and for the preparation of biodegradable designs, bowls, pots, jars, gift items, stud caps and bracelets.

Abstract: The invention relates to an integrated process for the production of 5-hydroxymethyl furfural (HMF), K2SO4, levulinic acid and formic acid from ?-carrageenan, the latter being obtained from fresh Kappaphycus alvarezii seaweed biomass after expelling the juice. Mg(HSO4)2 was used in HMF synthesis, with co-production of galactose. The aqueous stream after HMF extraction was treated with the seaweed juice which process facilitated recovery of K2SO4 in pure form. The galactose may be utilised for synthesis of levulinic acid and formic acid before or after K2SO4 recovery or, alternatively, utilised for other purposes. Catalysts required in the synthetic reactions are generated in the process itself while the process energy required is met out of additional supplies of the seaweed biomass which is subjected to combustion/gasification.

Abstract: The present invention relates to use of inexpensive semi-refined kappa carrageenan as a seaweed polysaccharide in preparation of tough, biodegradable films exhibiting improved performance over films obtained from refined kappa carrageenan. The formulation requires no gelling salt and the only other essential components of the film are glycerol and water, the former being used as plasticizer as reported in the prior art. The films can be recycled and reprocessed if required. The performance of the films can be further enhanced by incorporating polyvinyl alcohol that lends toughness and clarity as also natural rubber latex that imparts greater elasticity and barrier properties. Films of optimum composition can be pulse heat sealed immediately after casting and used for preparation of soft capsules and pouches. It is possible to store solvents and oils in the pouches.

Abstract: An integrated method is developed to utilize to a maximum extent the fresh biomass of seaweeds such as Kappaphycus alvarezii that can be crushed to release sap and where the sap is useful as a potent liquid fertilizer after suitable treatment with additives and dilution while the residue is a superior raw material for extraction of ?-carrageenan, thereby enhancing the value of the seaweed. Other advantages of the invention include a reduced drying time and drying area to obtain the raw material for ?-carrageenan production in dry and storable form, a reduced cost of transporting and storing this raw material because of its lesser bulk, easier handling due to its free flowing granular nature, and its direct use for gel preparation in certain applications.

Abstract: An integrated method is developed to utilise to a maximum extent the fresh biomass of seaweeds such as Kappaphycus alvarezii that can be crushed to release sap and where the sap is useful as a potent liquid fertilizer after suitable treatment with additives and dilution while the residue is a superior raw material for extraction of &kgr;-carrageenan, thereby enhancing the value of the seaweed. Other advantages of the invention include a reduced drying time and drying area to obtain the raw material for &kgr;-carrageenan production in dry and storable form, a reduced cost of transporting and storing this raw material because of its lesser bulk, easier handling due to its free flowing granular nature, and its direct use for gel preparation in certain applications.