Mesoporous Silica and Organosilica Nanomaterials as UV-Blocking Agents

Mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSN) and periodic mesoporous organosilica nanoparticles containing bridging benzene (PMOBTB) and ethane (PMOBTE) moieties are synthesized, characterized, and evaluated for application in skin protection from UVA/UVB sun irradiation. Furthermore, the influence of surface functionalization with chelating 3-(2-aminoethylamino)propylsilane and Zn2+ ions on the UV-blocking ability of MSN is evaluated, along with the photostability and capability of the synthesized nanomaterials to carry avobenzone, a known UV-absorbing agent. The obtained results reveal promising characteristics of MSN and PMO materials with regard to their potential for sunscreen applications, which could be beneficial in terms of alleviating concerns about health and environmental hazards of sunscreen ingredients.