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Ultrafast sonochemistry-based approach to coat TiO2 commercial particles for sunscreen formulation
J S Barbosa1, D M A Neto2, R M Freire3
1Group of Chemistry of Advanced Materials (GQMat) - Department of Analytical Chemistry and Physical-Chemistry, Federal University of Ceará - UFC, Campus do Pici, CP 12100, CEP 60451-970 Fortaleza, CE, Brazil.
Ultrasonics Sonochemistry
|August 7, 2018
Summary
A new sonochemical method efficiently coats titanium dioxide (TiO2) particles with SiO2, Al2O3, and sodium polyacrylate (PAANa). This coating reduces photocatalytic activity and improves sunscreen stability and safety without compromising UV protection.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Nanotechnology
- Cosmetic Science
Background:
- Titanium dioxide (TiO2) is a key UV filter in sunscreens, but its photocatalytic activity poses limitations.
- Surface modification of TiO2 is crucial for enhancing its properties, yet current methods are often complex and time-consuming.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a novel, rapid, and cost-effective sonochemical strategy for coating TiO2 particles.
- To reduce the photocatalytic activity and improve the colloidal stability of TiO2 for sunscreen applications.
- To evaluate the performance of coated TiO2 in sunscreen formulations.
Main Methods:
- Coating commercial TiO2 nanoparticles with SiO2, Al2O3, ZrO2, and sodium polyacrylate (PAANa) using sonochemistry.
- Characterization of coated particles using XRPD, FT-IR, DLS, EDS, SEM, and TEM.
- Evaluation of photocatalytic activity, UV-shielding ability, and sunscreen formulation properties (zeta potential, DLS, SPF).
Main Results:
- Sonochemical coating was successfully confirmed by FT-IR, EDS, and surface charge analysis.
- TiO2@Al2O3, TiO2@SiO2, and TiO2@PAANa exhibited reduced photocatalytic activity while maintaining UV-shielding capabilities.
- Sunscreen formulations with coated TiO2 showed comparable SPF values to commercial TiO2, with TiO2@PAANa significantly enhancing colloidal stability.
Conclusions:
- The sonochemical approach provides an efficient, easy, and fast method for surface modification of TiO2.
- Coated TiO2 particles offer improved safety (reduced free radical production) and stability in sunscreen formulations.
- This technology enables the development of sunscreens with enhanced aesthetic appeal and superior health security.
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