Abstract
Nanosized TiO2 particles (nTiO2) are usually coated with an Al(OH)3 layer when used in sunscreen to shield against the harmful effects of free radicals that are generated when these particles are exposed to UV radiation. Therefore, it is vital to insure the structural stability of these particles in the environment where the protective layer may be damaged and adverse health and environmental effects can occur. This study utilized X-ray analysis (SEM–EDS) to provide a qualitative and semi-quantitative assessment of the chemical and physical characteristics of Al(OH)3-coated original and damaged nTiO2 particles (used in sunscreen lotion formulations) in the presence of both swimming pool and seawater. Also, by utilizing statistical tools, a distribution of Al/Ti (%) on the particle surface was determined and evaluated. It was found that 45 min of treatment with swimming pool and seawater significantly induced the redistribution of Al/Ti (%), which changed the surface characteristics of particles and, therefore, may have induced undesired photo-activity and the consequent formation of free radicals.
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Acknowledgment
This research was funded and conducted by the National Risk Management Research Laboratory (NRMRL) of U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Cincinnati, Ohio. This paper has not been subjected to internal policy review of the U.S. EPA. Therefore, the research results do not necessarily reflect the views of the agency or its policy. Mention of trade names and commercial products does not constitute endorsement or recommendation for use.
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Virkutyte, J., Al-Abed, S.R. Statistical evaluation of potential damage to the Al(OH)3 layer on nTiO2 particles in the presence of swimming pool and seawater. J Nanopart Res 14, 787 (2012). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11051-012-0787-7
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11051-012-0787-7