Structure and properties of filamentous green algae

The green alga Cladophora glomerata obtained from freshwater rivers in California has been characterized. The structure of the algal fibers has been examined through optical and scanning electron microscopy. The tensile properties of individual algal filaments have been measured. The results indicate that the algal filaments consist of cylindrical cells 40 to 100 μm in diameter and 100 to 400 μm in length. The cell walls are composed of crystalline cellulosic microfibrils and are about 10% of the cell diameter. A variety of foreign algal species may adhere to the growing filament of Cladophora glomerata. The tensile strength of the algal filament is estimated to be between 5 and 35 MPa. The tensile properties may depend on the properties in the season when the algae are harvested. The algal fibers can be used as a filler in a number of composites.