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.
