Biocompatible Bi(OH)3 nanoparticles with reduced photocatalytic activity as possible ultraviolet filter in sunscreens
Highlights: • Facilesynthesis of inorganic Bi(OH){sub 3} nanoparticles. • High biocompatibility in human skin and dog kidney cells in vitro. • Ultraviolet filter capable of reducing the photocatalytic activity of TiO{sub 2} and ZnO. • Preparation of TiO{sub 2}/Bi(OH){sub 3} and classical TiO{sub 2}/ZnO sunscreen formulations. • Significantly improved photoprotection and photostability compared to TiO{sub 2}/ZnO. - Abstract: In this study we investigate readily synthesised Bi(OH){sub 3} nanoparticles as a novel, multifunctional ultraviolet filter for sunscreen. The absorbance of Bi(OH){sub 3} NPs in the ultraviolet region is comparable to that of both ZnO and TiO{sub 2} NPs used in commercial sunscreens. In vitro photoprotection results show that the combination of TiO{sub 2}/Bi(OH){sub 3} is more efficient than TiO{sub 2}/ZnO over the whole UV range, with an increase in sun protection factor of 28%. The emulsions show rheological properties comparable to those of commercial sunscreens. The combination of TiO{sub 2}/Bi(OH){sub 3} led to insignificant damage on pre-painted steel panels after exterior exposure for twelve weeks. We also demonstrate that the addition of Bi(OH){sub 3} NPs reduces the degradation of crystal violet by photocatalytically active TiO{sub 2} or ZnO NPs under ultraviolet exposure. Finally, assessment of the biocompatibility of Bi(OH){sub 3} with HaCaT keratinocytes and Madin-Darby Canine Kidney (MDCK) cells in vitro is described.