Novel approaches to flexible visible transparent hybrid films for ultraviolet protection

Abstract Herein, we present an overview of the most recent achievements and innovations regarding the development of flexible visible transparent films for selective ultraviolet (UV) shielding, with focus on those based on hybrid inorganic–organic materials. The main synthetic paths used nowadays to ensure a high degree of protection are reviewed. Polymers containing organic UV absorbing molecules, hybrid mixtures of polymers and nanoparticles, and the recently introduced series of structures displaying structural color, are identified as the three main types of materials used for this purpose. The use of biocompatible and flexible films to achieve spectrally selective UV protection can find applications in a wide diversity of fields such as photo‐treatment of skin diseases, food and beverage packing, and storage of cosmetics. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys, 2012