Assessment of the presence of Hexabromocyclododecane Isomers and tetrabromobisphenol A in solid waste: risk of exposure and its impact on the recycling process

• Grant number: 25/11187-1
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships abroad - Research Internship - Doctorate
• Start date: October 01, 2025
• End date: March 31, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Interdisciplinary Subjects
• Principal Investigator: André Henrique Rosa
• Grantee: Hansel David Burgos Melo
• Supervisor: Stuart John Harrad
• Host Institution: Instituto de Ciência e Tecnologia. Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP). Campus de Sorocaba. Sorocaba , SP, Brazil
• Institution abroad: University of Birmingham, England
• Associated to the scholarship: 22/14797-7 - Presence of Persistent Organic Pollutants (BDEs, HBCD and Cl-OPFRs) in solid waste: risk of exposure and its impact on the recycling process, BP.DR

Abstract

Persistent organic pollutants (POPs) are a group of synthetic organic compounds prioritized in environmental risk assessment due to their toxicity, persistence, and ability to cause adverse effects on biota and human health, even at very low concentrations. Among them, brominated flame retardants (BFRs), such as hexabromocyclododecane (HBCD) and tetrabromobisphenol A (TBBP-A), have been widely used in polymer production due to their flame-retardant properties, which help prevent fires that threaten both human life and the integrity of materials. However, these substances are highly stable in the environment and have considerable potential for accumulation throughout the reuse and recycling processes. In Brazil, where the regulatory framework is still limited and waste recycling is expanding, research on the presence and distribution of TBBP-A and HBCD isomers is especially important. Identifying compounds such as TBBP-A and a-HBCD, b-HBCD, and y-HBCD is essential for understanding the different levels of risk they entail, as well as for guiding more effective monitoring, regulation, and management strategies, preventing their reincorporation into new production chains, and safeguarding the development of a sustainable circular economy. In this sense, conducting the study at the University of Birmingham represents a strategic opportunity, given that this institution has a recognized track record in analyzing persistent organic pollutants, has highly specialized laboratories, and leading research groups in environmental toxicology. In this context, this proposal will not only strengthen the researcher's methodological capabilities but will also facilitate access to global scientific networks and best practices in risk analysis. The results obtained will serve as the basis for designing public policies in Brazil and Latin America, aligned with international standards such as the Stockholm Convention, promoting safe waste management and mitigating risks associated with these pollutants.