Application of synthetic melanin materials with UV absorbent and antioxidant properties.
Melanin materials are synthesized from a broad range of precursors yielding final products with different physic-chemical properties. Through manipulation of experimental conditions final products are dispersible and miscible in water or precipitate and form a coating on glass or plastic (e.g., polystyrene or polypropylene) surfaces. Practical approaches on a small scale (10-50mLreaction mixtures) have been tested and could be scaled up.
About Tennessee State University
Tennessee State University conducts applied and fundamental research across agriculture and environmental sciences, engineering and computer science, education and learning sciences, and health and behavioral studies. Its land‑grant programs include agricultural research and Cooperative Extension with long‑running USDA‑supported projects in plant science, urban agriculture, food safety, and natural resource management. Notable research units include the College of Agriculture’s research programs and extension centers, the Center of Excellence for Learning Sciences, and the Center of Excellence in Information Systems, along with specialized facilities such as the Otis L. Floyd Nursery Research Center. TSU investigators regularly secure funding from federal agencies including USDA‑NIFA, NSF, NIH, and the State of Tennessee, often in partnership with regional industry and community organizations. Technology transfer and outreach emphasize practical solutions in sustainable agriculture, biotechnology, data and information systems, and workforce development for Middle Tennessee and beyond.
delivered to your inbox.