ASTM F2259-03

1.1 This test method covers the determination of the composition and monomer sequence of alginate intended for use in biomedical and pharmaceutical applications as well as in Tissue Engineered Medical Products (TEMPs) by high-resolution proton NMR (¹H NMR). A guide for the characterization of alginate has been published as Guide F 2064.

1.2 Alginate, a linear polymer composed of β-D-mannuronate (M) and its C-5 epimer α-L-guluronate (G) linked by β-(1->4) glycosidic bonds, is characterized by calculating parameters such as mannuronate/guluronate (M/G) ratio, guluronic acid content (G-content), and average length of blocks of consecutive G monomers (that is, N_G>1). Knowledge of these parameters is important for an understanding of the functionality of alginate in TEMP formulations and applications. This test method will assist end users in choosing the correct alginate for their particular application. Alginate may have utility as a scaffold or matrix material for TEMPs, in cell and tissue encapsulation applications, and in drug delivery formulations.

1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.