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Author:Kangdi 04-12-2023
Mosquitoes can ruin a perfect summer evening or make relaxation outdoors nearly impossible without pesticide-laden repellents. With growing awareness of the impacts these chemical bug sprays have on health and the planet, scientists have been investigating greener, safer alternatives. One promising area of research focuses on using biodegradable materials to create skin-applied patches infused with natural bug-deterring compounds. These next-gen repellent patches could provide protection without toxicants or plastic waste—a win-win for consumers and the environment.
Many current mosquito repellent products consist of DEET, permethrin, or other strong synthetic chemicals either sprayed directly on skin or clothing or incorporated into wristbands. Compelling evidence links overexposure to certain chemical insecticides with human health issues. And when not disposed of properly, plastic patch components clutter landfills and leech toxic substances as they degrade.
Seeking solutions, researchers started exploring plant-based mosquito deterrents like citronella, geraniol, and lemon eucalyptus oil. These natural compounds effectively confuse mosquitoes’ scent receptors so they are less likely to bite. To harness these bug-confusing abilities in convenient, lasting patches, scientists needed carriers made from sustainable materials. Initial attempts with thin coconut oil or soy wax coatings lacked adequate effectiveness and durability.
The challenge was developing durable patch materials that could hold and steadily release natural repellent oils while still being kinder for health and the environment. The answer researchers found lies in biopolymers—compounds derived from renewable plant and animal sources instead of petroleum. Starches, cellulose fibers, chitin from shellfish waste, and milk proteins can all be turned into films, coatings, and support substrates through manufacturing innovations.
By isolating chitin from discarded shrimp shells and reforming it into thin, flexible sheets, researchers created an optimal base for repellent patches worn on skin. Then they loaded the durable chitin sheets with microencapsulated citronella and geraniol repellent beads handily released as the tiny capsules slowly degrade on the skin's surface across hours. Add a biodegradable adhesive backing so the patch adheres nicely to skin and can later completely break down in compost piles without harmful environmental accumulation.
The result? An effective mosquito deterrent delivering protection rivaling DEET that also nurtures skin thanks to anti-inflammatory chitin. And when its usefulness expires, the Mosquito Repellent Patch's biodegradability prevents it from burdening ecosystems like plastic alternatives. As manufacturing scales up, these repellent patches could become affordable, accessible options for consumers wanting to gently and sustainably keep mosquitoes at bay.