Description:
Reference Number:1688
Background
The incidence of skin cancer has doubled in the UK in the past 20 years, and
it is now the second most common cancer in the country, affecting 50,000 Britons
every year. Most people are aware of the damaging effects of the sun on
unprotected skin and the need to use a protective suntan lotion when exposed to
the sun's rays. However, if the lotion is not reapplied at the appropriate time
or is rubbed or washed off; consumers are left at risk of being harmed by over
exposure.
Technology
Researchers at the University of Strathclyde have developed an innovative UV
light indicator which could solve this problem. The technology takes the form of
an ink which can be printed onto a suitable substrate, for instance a strip of
plastic to be worn around the wrist. Once the harmful UV light exposure goes
above that recommended by the sunscreen, the indicator changes colour, thus
alerting the consumer that it is time to get out of the sun.
Key Benefits
- Very low manufacturing cost - less than 1p per unit
- Can be stored indefinitely at room temperature
- Easy to use
- Allows for text or logos to be printed
Markets and Applications
This technology has a natural market in the sun protection industry, as an
additional tool used alongside traditional sun protection products such as
sunscreen. The technology could also be deployed in other markets such as health
and safety dosimeters, protecting items, e.g. artwork from UV damage, and in the
production and packaging of UV sensitive materials or chemicals.
Licensing and Development
Patent protection is currently being secured by the University of
Strathclyde. Demonstrators of the technology have been developed. Contact is
welcomed from organisations interested in developing, licensing or exploiting
this technology.
For further information, please contact Research & Knowledge Exchange
Services:
e: rkes@strath.ac.uk t: 0141 548 3707 f: 0141 552 4409
This project has received assistance from the Proof of Concept Fund managed
by Scottish Enterprise. The Proof of Concept Fund supports the
pre-commercialisation of leading-edge technologies emerging from Scotland's
universities, research institutes and NHS Trusts.