Case Study: Utilization of Lignin from Philippine Fast-Growing Pulpwood Species for Sunscreen Applications
Author : Palomar, Bernardo Zen T.
Major Adviser : Grande, Jeanette O.
Major Co-Adviser : Manalo, Ronniel D.
Committee Members : Guerrero, Gino Apollo M.; Arocena, Rhebner E.
Year : 2021
Month : August
Type : Thesis
Degree: BS
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Abstract
Long-term exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun is damaging and can result in a variety of skin issues. Sunscreens are used to prevent UV damage; however, common sunscreen ingredients can cause health and environmental hazards. In this study, the potential use of lignin extracted from Philippine fast- growing species namely: Acacia magium, Paraserianthes falcata, Gmelina arborea, and Eucalyptus deglupta for sunscreen applications was considered. Lignin has a peak UV absorbance of 280 nm on the UVB region. This is attributed to the different aromatic and polyphenolic functional groups of lignin that can absorb UV light. Lignin could be an alternative to usual sunscreen compounds such as oxybenzone and octinoxate. Different lignin extraction methods were compared along with hot-water pretreatment to assess the purity of lignin. In comparison to employing solely synthetic UV blockers or lignin alone, lignin shows synergistic effects and enhanced final UV blocking potential in combinations with other synthetic UV blockers. Regardless of climate conditions, the characteristics of lignin especially UV absorption capacity is almost the same. Thus, the lignin from Philippine fast-growing tree species can be further studied for high-value applications such as potential UV blockers. Information gathered in this case study were mostly from online resources.
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