Calcium alginate is a gel-forming substance derived from alginic
acid, which is extracted from brown seaweed. It is used in various
applications due to its ability to form a gel when it reacts with
calcium ions. Commonly, it is utilized in the food industry as a
thickening or gelling agent, in pharmaceuticals for drug delivery
systems, and in medical applications for wound dressings and dental
impressions. Its gel-forming property is also harnessed in the
production of edible films and in water purification processes.