ALGINATE
- Irreversible hydrocolloid
- Content Is sodium or potassium salt of alginic acid –
- Advantages
¤ Economical/cheap
¤ Single use, therefore no cross-infection
¤ Sterilization done here
- Laminate technique ie. alginate (tray) + agar (syringe)
- Trisodium phosphate – setting reaction
- Filler used is - Diatomaceous earth – for strength

ALGINATE IMPRESSION TAKING:
1. Right after alginate impression  wash under tap water  disinfect with 2% glutaraldehyde (1st choice) / cidex / iodoform – for 10 seconds
2. Pour immediately – within 15mins
3. If not distortion & poor cast due to synergesis
4. When sending the impression directly to lab – store in 100% humidity – up to 45mins only
5. Ie. Cotton dipped in water, drained & kept along with the impression in the plastic cover
6. Do not put soaked cotton directly – will cause imbibition
7. If alginate dries out – will affect the setting of dental stone also – due to absorption of water from cast by alginate – causes rough cast –
8. Anticholinergic drugs are generally used to reduce saliva in patients with excess salivation