Nanomaterials synthesis for UV protection
- Reference number
- UKR24-0012
- Project leader
- Brychka, Alla
- Start and end dates
- 241001-250930
- Amount granted
- 1 000 000 SEK
- Administrative organization
- Stockholm University
- Research area
- Materials Science and Technology
Summary
Objectives Research on new inorganic materials as UV-filters. A focus will be on researching new nanomaterials based on cerium oxide with potentially better properties than current inorganic and organic UV filters. Plan Development of a method and verification of a method of obtaining nanomaterials based on cerium oxide. Establishing the characteristics of these nanomaterials. Screening studies of these nanomaterials. Expected results Technologies for obtaining stable and safe nanomaterials - powders and dispersions based on cerium oxide. Documented UV protective activity of the obtained nanomaterials. Testing of the ready-made substances in cosmetics with the protection against UV rays.
Popular science description
Natural solar radiation has both indisputable benefits and dangers for living organisms. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation as part of the solar spectrum in small amounts is necessary for the existence of living organisms. It also has a powerful bactericidal effect against viruses, bacteria, fungi, etc. UV radiation is divided into long-wave (315-400 nm, UVA), medium-wave (280-315 nm, UVB) and the most dangerous short-wave (10-280 nm, UVC). UVA and UVB radiation reaches the earth's surface. It is absorbed by human and animal skin and plants. But an excessive amount of UV radiation has a negative effect on living organisms, causing unwanted biochemical processes and mutations. It causes damage to the eyes and skin, accelerates aging, leads to the formation of melanoma or other types of skin cancer, destroys organic compounds - constituent substances of the tissues of living organisms. It also destroys products made of natural materials of plant and animal origin, in particular, wood, causing an undesirable change in color, structure and strength. Therefore, the creation of new safe materials with powerful UV protective properties for the production of consumer goods is extremely urgent. Sunscreens that contain organic or inorganic UV filters are commonly used, raising concerns about their toxicity and ecotoxicity. Our research focuses on nanomaterials as alternative inorganic UV filters in cosmetic and technical preparations. They combine the ability of better UV protection with the action of biological antioxidants with anti-inflammatory, anti-aging and therapeutic properties. New nanomaterials are thermo- and photo-stable, insoluble in water, non-toxic, safe and do not have unwanted pigmentation effect. They are used in small quantities and make it possible to increase the effectiveness and reduce the price of sunscreen preparations. The goal is to obtain nanomaterials with a number of competitive advantages: intense absorption in the most dangerous region of the UV spectrum (290-320 nm), low toxicity for humans, environmental friendliness and stability, for technical and cosmetic applications. Our research contributes to The Sustainable Development Goals, including Good health and well-being, Industry, innovation and infrastructure, Responsible consumption and production, etc.