On November 22, 2022, the United States Patent and Trademark Office issued U.S. Patent , titled Boron Nitride Nanomaterial (BNNT) Compositions, that names Dr. Geyou (Augyu) , 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.