Sustainable UV protection from algae

UV filters in cosmetics or surface coatings protect the skin and materials from intense sunlight by absorbing, reflecting, or scattering UV rays. Chemical UV filters are often used for this purpose. However, these are increasingly subject to criticism: ecotoxicological and health concerns, as well as growing regulatory requirements, are driving up demand for sustainable alternatives.

This is precisely where the international research project “MycoNoS” comes in. The goal is to develop a biodegradable, environmentally friendly, and yet highly effective UV protection technology based on natural ingredients.

Biotechnologically derived UV filters from algae and cyanobacteria

Mycosporine-like amino acids (MAAs) represent a promising alternative to conventional chemical and inorganic UV filters. In nature, they are found in algae and cyanobacteria, among other organisms, and serve as effective UV protection for them. They are characterized by high photochemical stability and also possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

The expert team in the “MycoNoS” project is leveraging these properties to develop a holistic concept for MAA-based UV protection technologies that is both economically and ecologically sound. The project results will form the basis for future industrial implementation across various application areas. The protective technology can be integrated into natural and functional cosmetics to protect the skin from UV radiation. It can also be used in technical coating systems to make surfaces more durable.

Holistic process development at Fraunhofer IVV

The methodological implementation of MycoNoS is largely shaped by our expertise in process engineering, analytics, and applied research. As project coordinators, we are responsible for the overall scientific and technical strategy. We bring to the project our many years of experience in developing sustainable and scalable processes for extracting and utilizing functional natural products from biogenic raw materials.

At the heart of the project, in which we work closely with international partners, is the optimization of suitable process chains for MAA-containing algal biomass. We investigate suitable culture conditions and process parameters to specifically promote the formation of mycosporine-like amino acids. We are responsible for process integration, standardizing processing approaches, and developing sustainable, scalable downstream processes that enable the extraction and purification of functional natural products in accordance with green chemistry principles.

Functional evaluation and application of MAAs as UV filters

Our technology experts characterize MAA-based ingredients and evaluate their functional properties, particularly their UV protection and antioxidant effects. Special model formulations will be tested in both cosmetic and technical products under real-world conditions.

Another key component of the work is the technical-economic evaluation of the entire process chain. Aspects such as resource efficiency, energy consumption, cost-effectiveness, and regulatory compliance are taken into account at an early stage.

A bioeconomic approach to the use of algae-based raw materials

The project takes a holistic, bioeconomic approach to the efficient use of algae-based raw materials. In doing so, it makes an important contribution to resource conservation and the economic viability of bio-based process chains. In addition to generating new scientific insights, “MycoNoS” opens up opportunities for technology transfer, collaborations with companies, and further research and development projects in the field of sustainable UV protection technologies.