5109. Isinglass

Nomenclature

Ichthyocolla; fish glue.

Description and references

The inner membrane of the swimming bladder of Acipenser huso and other species of sturgeon and of hake. Constit. Chiefly glutin.

Properties

Thin, white or yellowish, semi-transparent, pearly iridescent, horny sheets. Sol in hot water, hot dil alcohol. In cold water, softens and becomes adhesive.

Use

As nutrient and food instead of gelatin; as adhesive, in “court plaster”; for clarifying (fining) wine and beer; as protective colloid in manuf various chemicals; in glass and porcelain cements; for lustering and stiffening silks and other fabrics; with pyroxylin for waterproofing fabrics.