Contribution à l'extraction d'alginate à partir des algues brunes marines

Abstract

This research is part of the desire to transform an ecological constraint into an opportunity: Rugulopteryx okamurae (invasive brown algae newly identified on the Algerian coast) now represents a threat to marine ecosystems. The objective of our approach was to explore a valorization path consisting in extracting one of its high value-added compounds: alginate. This natural polymer is highly sought after in the food, pharmaceutical and biomedical sectors for its thickening and gelling properties. A classic extraction protocol was implemented, combining alkaline treatment and acid precipitation, but the results obtained (low yield: 4% and final product of average quality) suggest that the limits are notably due to the dense and particular structure of the cell wall of this species. Even if these results do not allow for immediate exploitation on an industrial scale, this work contributes to a better understanding of this local biomass, opening new research perspectives (improvement of protocols, more detailed biochemical studies, but above all exploration of other active molecules contained in this algae). In this perspective, this work constitutes a first step towards the sustainable valorization of local marine resources, in the context of scientific research and useful innovation.