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Photocatalytic disinfection for the home consumer
Background

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.

What we're looking for

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:

  • Photocatalytic processes that kill bacteria using light sources commonly present in homes (near UV and visible light).
  • Photocatalytic processes that produce powerful sanitizers (e.g. ClO2).
  • Combinations of photocatalytic processes with other chemicals that increase antimicrobial activity, particularly substances commonly used in cleaning products like chelants and surfactants.
  • Combinations of photocatalytic processes and other antimicrobial agents that are effective at low levels of use.
  • Photocatalytic materials that can be applied to surfaces using aqueous solutions. The solutions can contain surfactants and solvents.
  • Molecules that exhibit antibacterial benefits when used in photocatalysis.
Our must-have requirements are:
  • Photocatalysis utilizing light sources commonly present in homes (near UV and visible)
  • Antimicrobial benefit of molecules has been evaluated using standard methods
  • Materials can be applied to surfaces using aqueous solutions
Our nice-to-have's are:
  • Commercially available, non-toxic molecules that can be used in consumer products
  • New molecules and materials that can easily be derived from other commercial molecules
What's out of scope:
  • Photocatalytic processes using UVA and UVC. UVA is acceptable, but preferably above 380nm
  • Photocatalytic processes involving intense light sources (e.g. lasers)
  • Photocatalytic processes involving new molecules that require complex, multi-step synthesis
What we can offer you
Benefits:
Sponsored Research
Funding up to $150,000 for a 6-month proof-of-concept project with the potential for substantial follow-on investment.
Expertise
Receive hands-on coaching and support from packaging, design, supply change, regulatory and manufacturing experts, and access a global distribution network spanning 6 continents.
Who we are

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!

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