Biomimetic beta-hydroxy acids for keratin repair
GlycoSurf introduces a novel class of medium-chain beta-hydroxy acids designed to restore and repair the hydrophobic F-layer of keratin fibers. These bio-based BHAs offer superior interfacial penetration and durability, providing a permanent biomimetic repair.
Overview
GlycoSurf has developed a novel class of medium-chain beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs) aimed at restoring the natural lipid layer of keratin fibers. Unlike conventional oils or triglycerides, these BHAs actively bind to the protein structure of keratin, offering a durable and biomimetic repair solution. By using a blend of medium-chain BHAs, specifically C10/C12, this technology provides superior interfacial penetration and mimics the natural 18-MEA lipid layer, ensuring long-lasting results even after surfactant cleansing.
Technical specifications
Key features:
- Dual-anchoring mechanism: Ionic salt bridges and bidentate hydrogen bonding ensure strong attachment to keratin.
- Customizable chain length: Available in C8 to C14, with C10/C12 blends offering optimal performance.
- Advanced characterization: Techniques like Quartz Crystal Microbalance, XPS, and Raman spectroscopy confirm effective keratin binding and durability.
- Hydrophobicity enhancement: Contact angle measurements show improved resistance to washing.
Technology readiness level
The development of these beta-hydroxy acids is at a Technology Readiness Level 3, indicating that the technology has been validated in laboratory settings and is ready for further testing and development. GlycoSurf is open to partnerships for sponsored research, co-development, supply purchase, and licensing opportunities.
About GlycoSurf, Inc
GlycoSurf, Inc. is a chemical manufacturing company founded in 2013 that specializes in the production of high-purity, eco-friendly glycolipid biosurfactants. Based on technology developed at the University of Arizona, the company utilizes a proprietary synthetic manufacturing process to produce biodegradable, non-toxic, and tailorable surfactant molecules, including rhamnolipids, rhamnosides, xylolipids, and galactolipids. Unlike traditional biosynthetic methods that rely on bacterial fermentation, GlycoSurf’s synthetic approach allows for greater scalability, lower costs, and consistent purity levels exceeding 95%. Their products are designed to be chemically tailored to meet specific application requirements, providing a sustainable, high-performance alternative to traditional surfactants.
The company's surfactants serve a diverse range of industries, including personal care and cosmetics, agriculture, industrial and medical device cleaning, and high-tech sectors such as oilfield chemicals and metals recovery. By offering renewable, bio-based alternatives, GlycoSurf helps formulators improve efficiency and meet sustainability goals without compromising on performance. The company has demonstrated its commitment to quality through ISO 9001:2015 certification and maintains a robust research and production capability based in Salt Lake City, Utah, supported by funding from Tech Launch Arizona and other sources. Their molecules are utilized in applications requiring effective wetting, cleaning, emulsification, and biofilm disruption, solving key performance and environmental challenges for global customers and partners.
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