Preparation of mannuronic lactone from algin.

A simple procedure is reported for the preparation of crystalline mannuronic lactone from algin. The algin is converted to alginic acid, which is hydrolyzed by the action of concentrated sulfuric acid followed by dilute acid. In contrast to prior methods, the lactone is crystallized directly from the hydrolyzate of alginic acid without the intermediate separation of the amorphous barium salt or the cinchonine salt. The yield is from 25 to 30 percent of the alginic acid used. The preparation and properties of crystalline sodium mannuronate and potassium mannuronate monohydrate are also described.