The Biocompatibility of Synthesised Hydroxyapatite (HAp) Originating from The Meretrix lyrata Shell Investigated as A Functional Component in UV Filters Formulations

ASM Sc. J., 9(1), 2026

Published on June 30, 2026

https://doi.org/10.32802/asmscj.2026.0015

Author: Mohamad Safuan Azhar, Mohd Zul Helmi Rozaini, Mohd Hasmizam Razali, Md Uwaisulqarni Osman, Muhammad Syakirin Zulhadi

Abstract

The escalating necessity for safer and ecologically benign sunscreen formulations has prompted the exploration of alternative UV-filtering agents to supplant traditional titanium dioxide (TiO₂) and zinc oxide (ZnO), which bring forth concerns regarding cytotoxicity, environmental durability, and potential harm to coral reefs. In the present investigation, hydroxyapatite (HAp) was synthesi sed from the shells of Meretrix lyrata clams and examined as a functional constituent in UV filter formulations. For the intention of enhancing UV absorption attributes, HAp experienced doping with iron (Fe) and manganese (Mn). The formed materials were evaluated through techniques like Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), X -Ray Diffraction (XRD), and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), thereby substantiating their crystalline layout and nanostructured characteristics. UV -Vis spectrometry methods were utilised to measure UV light absorption, showing that emulsions with HAp doping displayed a broader absorbance range in contrast to standard HAp. There was a noticeable connection between UV absorbance and SPF values, with HAp-Mn securing a distinguished SPF of 35. These results underscore the viability of Fe- and Mn-doped biogenic HAp as a sustainable and reef-safe alternative for the development of next-generation sunscreen formulations.

Keywords: hydroxyapatite (HAp), Meretrix lyrata, Ultraviolet (UV) filters