STTR Phase II: Benign Thin Film Composite Particles for Protection from UVA/UVB - Rays

This Small Business Technology Transfer Research (STTR) Phase II project provides for the commercialization of surface-passivated composite titania/zinc oxide particles for benign protection from UVA and UVB radiation. The composite particles are manufactured via novel atomic layer deposition (ALD) technology. These materials are targeted at use in sunblock skin care formulations; the inert coating will allow easy dispersion of the particles in a variety of formulations, and will prevent direct contact between active titania or zinc oxide and the skin. The major health problem of sun-induced skin cancer could be helped with the introduction of new, more effective UVA/UVB protection in a wider variety of skin care products. This Phase II project will focus on refining the material design, production at larger scale, and proving the effectiveness of these composites in formulations for UVA/UVB transmittance and sun protection factors.