Photo-crosslinking keratin with aqueous-compatible benzophenone-based additive
A novel benzophenone-based additive for photo-crosslinking keratin, offering water compatibility and efficient bonding under 365 nm UV light. This technology is suitable for hair care applications, enhancing fiber strength and durability.
Overview
This innovative solution introduces a benzophenone (BP)-based photo-crosslinking additive designed for keratin treatment in hair care applications. The additive leverages a radical-based crosslinking mechanism that operates under short 365 nm UV exposure, a standard practice in cosmetic treatments such as hair and nail care. The key advantage of this technology is its ability to form covalent bonds between keratin chains, significantly enhancing the durability and strength of treated fibers. Its compatibility with water-based processes and conventional coating methods ensures easy integration into existing manufacturing workflows.
Technical specifications
- Utilizes a benzophenone-based additive for radical photo-crosslinking
- Achieves efficient crosslinking with just 1 wt% relative to polymer
- Compatible with water-processable methods like dip- and spray-coating
- Demonstrates durable crosslinking, surviving repeated water washing
- Employs 365 nm UV light for activation, minimizing potential degradation
- BP derivatives are FDA-approved, ensuring consumer safety
Technology readiness level
This technology is at TRL 4, indicating that it has been validated in a laboratory setting. A proposed 6 to 12-month project aims to optimize formulations, validate crosslinking on keratin fibers, and benchmark quality against commercial standards. The research seeks industrial collaboration for further development and comparison with existing market solutions.
About Arizona State University
Arizona State University is a comprehensive public research university with a multi-campus presence across the Phoenix metropolitan area and a scale that supports interdisciplinary, use-inspired discovery. Industry partners access co-located laboratories, a research and technology park, and innovation centers that house corporate teams with faculty to speed prototyping and validation. A formal alliance with a major hospital system and proximity to a fast-growing manufacturing corridor enable clinical translation and pilot-scale testbeds, while applied student engagements create dependable talent pipelines. Research is backed by competitive federal funding from agencies such as NSF, NIH, DOE, DOD, and NASA. A dedicated technology transfer office supports IP, licensing, and startup formation.
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