Moo3 nanoparticle photocatalyst for enhanced antimicrobial and ROS production in disinfectant formulations
Visible-light-active molybdenum trioxide (MoO3) nanoparticles that boost reactive oxygen species (ROS) production to enhance antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral activity. Designed for integration into Lysol-type disinfectant formulations as either a substitute for or complement to traditional antiseptic compounds, enabling more effective surface and topical sanitization under ambient light.
Overview
This solution leverages molybdenum trioxide (MoO3) nanoparticles as a visible-light photocatalyst to significantly enhance the antimicrobial performance of disinfectant formulations. By producing reactive oxygen species (ROS) — including hydroxyl radicals, hydrogen peroxide, and singlet oxygen — under visible light illumination, the nanoparticles can either replace conventional antiseptic compounds or work alongside them to increase overall disinfection efficacy. The technology targets improved control of bacteria, fungi, and viruses in formulations similar to Lysol, offering a science-backed approach to next-generation sanitizers for healthcare, consumer, and industrial applications.
Technical specifications
Core technology:
- MoO3 nanoparticles synthesized via hydrothermal methods in multiple morphologies
- Bandgap below 2.9 eV, enabling effective visible-light photocatalysis across the 460–630 nm wavelength range
- Nanoencapsulation with surfactants such as alkyl dimethyl benzyl ammonium chloride using an emulsion method
- Compatible with common Lysol-type ingredients including ethanol, isopropyl alcohol, p-chloro-o-benzyl phenol, lactic acid, and hydrogen peroxide at concentrations up to 0.1%
Key features:
- Demonstrated antimicrobial efficacy exceeding 95% against tested bacteria and fungi
- Hydrogen peroxide identified as the primary ROS driving antimicrobial action
- Synergistic enhancement of photocatalytic activity when combined with H2O2
- No catalyst activation observed under dark conditions, confirming light-driven mechanism
Technology readiness level
The MoO3 nanoparticles have been synthesized, characterized, and validated for antimicrobial activity and ROS production under visible light. Current work is advancing toward encapsulation with surfactants and integration into full Lysol-component formulations, with planned testing against fungi, bacteria, and viruses. Experiments will also isolate the contribution of MoO3 nanoparticles independent of H2O2 to confirm standalone ROS enhancement. The technology is at an early-to-mid development stage, ready for collaborative formulation optimization and broader antimicrobial validation.
About University of Houston, Downtown
University of Houston–Downtown is a public, urban university within the University of Houston System, serving a diverse metropolitan student body and working professionals. Its location in the city’s business core gives companies easy access to faculty expertise, student talent, and on-campus labs for sponsored projects, internships, and capstone collaborations. Flexible engagement models—short courses, certificates, and customized contracts—help employers upskill teams and pilot solutions with minimal friction. Research activity is supported by competitive federal and state funding. A dedicated research administration office facilitates agreements, compliance, and IP management, coordinating commercialization pathways across the UH System when appropriate.
delivered to your inbox.