Reckitt is a global consumer products company that operates a portfolio of leading household brands in nutrition, health, and hygiene. Reckitt is dedicated to developing environmentally-friendly disinfectant methods that are safe and effective for home use. One promising method is photocatalysis, the use of a catalyst to speed up chemical reactions that require light. Antimicrobial use of photocatalysis involves three components: exposure to light, a photosensitizer, and molecular oxygen. These three components combine to produce reactive oxygen species that effectively kill a wide variety of microorganisms. However, several technical challenges have prevented the widespread use of photocatalysis in consumer products. Photocatalytic activity depends on the interplay of many factors, including the photosensitizer itself, the light source (e.g., wavelength, intensity, interactions with photosensitizers), and length of exposure, which all must be optimized for safe and effective disinfection.
We are seeking to develop photocatalytic processes, chemicals, and materials that allow consumers to disinfect both soft (e.g., clothes, carpets) and hard surfaces (e.g., dishes, floors, countertops).
Solutions of interest include:
At Reckitt, we turn scientific breakthroughs into everyday consumer hygiene solutions for today, tomorrow and the future. As one of the world’s largest consumer product companies, we have the breadth of experience to unlock and develop the value of potential innovations. Our product portfolio across health, hygiene and nutrition include trusted brands like Lysol, Dettol, Finish, Vanish, Harpic, Mortein, and Air Wick.
Partner with us and bring your ideas to life!
Learn more