Metal Oxide Nanocomposites for Uv Protection

Simple SummaryContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

This invention covers the formulation and production of metal oxide nanocomposite particles—particularly those containing zinc oxide—embedded within a polymer matrix and sized between 80 and 400 nanometers. These particles absorb UV light very efficiently while allowing visible light to pass through, significantly improving transparency compared to traditional metal oxide sunscreens. The invention also details methods for making these nanocomposites and demonstrates their use in transparent, stable sunscreen compositions and coatings that do not leave a visible white residue.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Transparent topical sunscreens and cosmetic products that protect skin from UV radiation without leaving a white cast.
• UV-protective coatings for plastics or polymers used in outdoor applications (e.g., automotive parts, building materials, packaging).
• UV shielding of thermoplastic articles, such as acrylic sheets, polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) panels, or polycarbonate glazing, maintaining their optical clarity.
• Incorporation into clear paints, varnishes, or adhesives to confer UV resistance while retaining transparency.
• Formulation of protective films for electronic displays or photovoltaic devices, protecting sensitive components from UV damage.

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Provides high UV protection (both UVA and UVB) while remaining almost completely transparent in the visible spectrum.
• Significantly reduces the whitening effect typical of conventional physical sunscreens, improving cosmetic acceptability.
• Particle size and surface characteristics are optimized for easy dispersion and stability, minimizing aggregation and settling in formulations.
• Versatile manufacturing process enables control over particle size and composite composition for various applications.
• Polymer matrix helps stabilize the metal oxide nanostructures, leading to long shelf-life and improved performance in end products.
• Non-toxic and photostable materials (especially zinc oxide), supporting safer, longer-term use on skin or consumer products.
• Process avoids the need for chemical UV filters, which can have unwanted side effects or regulatory limitations.

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Inventors & Applicants

Patent Abstract

The present invention relates to a method of protecting a substrate against ultraviolet (UV) irradiation by applying to the substrate metal oxide nanocomposite particles showing at the same time high transmittance of visible light and high absorbance of UV light.