Final answer:
Disinfection of alginate can be accomplished using alcohols, halogens, and alkylating agents. Alcohols denature proteins and disrupt membranes, while halogens and alkylating agents offer different mechanisms of action. Higher concentrations of alcohols may be less effective in disinfection.
Step-by-step explanation:
Disinfection of alginate can be accomplished by using various chemical agents.
One common method is to use alcohols such as ethyl alcohol (ethanol) and isopropyl alcohol (isopropanol).
Alcohols work by denaturing proteins and disrupting membranes, which inhibits cell metabolism and leads to cell lysis. They are typically used in concentrations of about 70% aqueous solution, as higher concentrations can prevent effective penetration of cells.
Other chemicals, such as halogens like iodine, chlorine, and fluorine, and alkylating agents like formaldehyde, can also be used for disinfection.