Enhancement of UV absorption behavior in ZnO–TiO2 composites

The ultraviolet–visible, UV–vis, absorption edge behaviour of semiconductor oxides as TiO2 and ZnO promotes their use as inorganic UV filters for sunscreens. In cosmetics, the use of nanoparticles is favoured because of their higher yield and lower whiteness. However, the particle size effect in the UV absorption is unclear. For this reason, the performances of nano and microsized TiO2 and ZnO are evaluated in both the UV–vis spectroscopy and the Sun Protection Factor, SPF, value. In order to cover the UV range completely by using inorganic filters a new composite is attempted by dry nanodispersion methodology in which TiO2 nanoparticles are dispersed onto ZnO microparticles. The new composite shows superior UV absorbing properties and ca. 60% SPF value due to a synergism between components that resulted in extended UV coverage and reduction of the total amount of nanoparticles required in the sunscreens. In addition, nanoparticles are effectively anchored onto microparticles avoiding the presence of free nanoparticles.