On November 22, 2022, the United States Patent and Trademark Office issued U.S. Patent 11,504,311, titled Boron Nitride Nanomaterial (BNNT) Compositions, that names Dr. Geyou (Augyu) Ao, professor in the Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering (CBE). The patent relates to a method to produce stable, controllable compositions of boron nitride nanomaterials, including hexagonal boronitride (hBN).

hBN is used in over 640 cosmetic formulations, primarily for skin-contacting products such as eye shadow and powder. The multifunctionality of BNNT and hBN nanosheets will enable them to serve as both an effective stabilizer of emulsions and a UV filter. The BNNT and hBN nanosheets provide a water-soluble UV filter that helps sunscreen manufacturers who want to innovate safe and effective sunscreens by reducing costs, improving sensory appeal, and environmental safety of the product.