O-Spheres SunBlockerTM - Next Generation Sun Protection Materials

Overview

Tailor-made, polymer-free,hollow microspheres “O-Spheres SunBlockerTM” protects against UV rays via three applications: 1) 100% coral-friendly physical UV filters; 2) outdoor cooling paint additives to lower surface temperatures; and 3) UV-resistant fabrics.

  • O-Spheres SunBlockerTM - Next Generation Sun Protection Materials 0
  • O-Spheres SunBlockerTM - Next Generation Sun Protection Materials 1
  • O-Spheres SunBlockerTM - Next Generation Sun Protection Materials 2
Commercialisation opportunities
Product/service distribution
Problem addressed

O‑Spheres SunBlockerTM serves as a high‑performance, eco‑friendly alternative to conventional additives. Through the application of these polymer free, hollow spheres, it prevents issues associated with titanium dioxide and chemical- or polymer based UV filters, including whitening, coral toxicity, and microplastic generation. The technology also reduces building cooling energy consumption and enhances the durability of UV resistant textiles, thereby decreasing waste.

Innovation
  • Ocean-Friendly & White Mark-Free Physical UV Filters: The inorganic, polymer-free composition and hollow-cavity design of O-Spheres SunBlockerTM enhance UV scattering while preventing microplastic pollution and addressing the whitening and thick-texture issues commonly associated with conventional physical UV filters.
  • Outdoor Cooling Paint Additives: The submicron hollow additives enhance light scattering and reduce thermal conductivity in coatings, thereby enabling significant cooling and energy savings. They are provided in a ready-to-use, water-based, VOC-free formulation.
  • UV‑Resistant Fabrics: Hollow spheres are embedded into textile fibers to provide durable UV protection without toxic chemical finishing.
Key impact
  • Evidence-backed performance against harmful UV rays.
  • Delivers high‑performance eco‑additives free from polymers, VOCs, and toxic chemicals.
  • The hollow particles can be easily incorporated into a wide range of formulations.
Award
  • 2025 Gold Medal with Congratulations of the Jury - 50th International Exhibition of Inventions of Geneva
  • 2024 Bronze Award - Hong Kong Green Innovations Awards
  • 2023 Distinction Award in Healthcare Innovation and Technology & Distinction Award in Ecological Conservation Innovation and Technology – Hong Kong Sustainable Development Innovation and Technology Awards
Application
  • Physical UV filters in sunscreen and personal care products
  • Outdoor Cooling Paint Additives
  • UV‑Resistant Fabrics
The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK)

Founded in 1963, The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) is a forward-looking comprehensive research university with a global vision and a mission to combine tradition with modernity, and to bring together China and the West. CUHK teachers and students hail from all around the world. Four Nobel laureates are associated with the university, and it is the only tertiary institution in Hong Kong with recipients of the Nobel Prize, Turing Award, Fields Medal and Veblen Prize sitting as faculty in residence. CUHK graduates are connected worldwide through an extensive alumni network. CUHK undertakes a wide range of research programmes in many subject areas, and strives to provide scope for all academic staff to undertake consultancy and collaborative projects with industry. 

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