Ultraviolet (UV) radiation poses significant risks to both human health and the environment. Consequently, developing efficient UV-protective materials is of great importance to society. Zinc oxide (ZnO) is widely recognized as a highly effective UV filter and is commonly incorporated into sunscreens and personal care products, with toxicological studies indicating good biocompatibility even at the nanoscale. [1] ZnO functions as a physical shield by scattering and absorbing UVA and UVB radiation, thereby reducing skin damage and lowering the risk of UV-related carcinogenesis. [2]
Despite these advantages, the long-term industrial deployment of ZnO-based UV-blocking materials remain challenging due to its residual photocatalytic activity. With prolonged exposure, ZnO can degrade various organic contaminants, dyes, and certain inorganic compounds into less harmful species. [3] While this property is beneficial in applications such as water and air treatment, photodetectors, and solar energy devices, it presents a significant limitation for the use of ZnO in protecting organic materials, coatings, and polymer-based products from UV exposure. [4]
There is an urgent demand for improved formulations that deliver strong UV protection while limiting photo-oxidative degradation. This study focuses on tailoring the properties of ZnO nanoparticles to maintain their UV-shielding capability while reducing or eliminating photocatalytic activity, through the exploration of surface modifications, chemical additives, and a more detailed investigation of the underlying mechanisms. The objective is to enhance the longevity and performance of both personal care and industrial formulations, ultimately improving product reliability and consumer safety.