Carbon quantum dots/biopolymer UV protective formulation
A non-toxic UV protective formulation using heteroatom-doped carbon quantum dots (CDs) integrated into biopolymer matrices, designed for agrochemical applications. This eco-friendly solution offers strong UV absorption, antioxidant activity, and enhanced stability for oil-based formulations.
Overview
The Carbon Quantum Dots/Biopolymer UV Protective Formulation is an innovative solution designed to enhance the UV protection of agrochemical products. This formulation integrates heteroatom-doped carbon quantum dots (CDs) within oil-compatible biopolymer matrices, resulting in a highly effective, non-toxic UV-protective agent. Synthesized from natural precursors, these sub-10 nm nanomaterials exhibit strong UV absorption and antioxidant activity, making them ideal for preventing UV-induced degradation of active ingredients in agrochemical formulations, thus extending product shelf life and promoting sustainable agricultural practices.
Technical specifications
Key features:
- Heteroatom-doped carbon quantum dots (CDs) synthesized from sustainable sources
- Strong UV absorption and radical scavenging capabilities
- Non-toxic, environmentally benign, and biodegradable
- Effective integration into biopolymer films and emulsified systems
- Provides >85% DPPH and >90% ABTS radical scavenging
- Offers ≥90% UVA & UVB blocking
- Compatible with oil-based agrochemical systems and active ingredients
Technology readiness level
This technology is currently at TRL 5, having been validated in laboratory and relevant environments. Further development aims to optimize formulation stability and ensure compatibility with a range of agrochemical components while maintaining high levels of UV protection and antioxidant efficacy.
About University of Waterloo
University of Waterloo is a public research university in Ontario, Canada, known for an entrepreneurial, STEM‑driven culture. A globally recognized co‑op program places students with employers year‑round, creating direct talent pipelines and de‑risked pathways into sponsored research and contract development. An adjacent research and technology park hosts corporate R&D alongside faculty labs, and the campus sits within the Toronto–Waterloo innovation corridor for ready access to partners, investors, and scale‑up resources. Research is supported by competitive federal funding from Canada’s Tri‑Council agencies (NSERC, CIHR, SSHRC) and international programs. A creator‑owned IP policy and a dedicated tech transfer office enable flexible agreements, licensing, and spinouts.
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