Development of green and multivariate strategies for the extraction of high value-added compounds from sugarcane by-products.

• Grant number: 25/14225-1
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Doctorate
• Start date: September 01, 2025
• End date: February 29, 2028
• Field of knowledge: Physical Sciences and Mathematics - Chemistry - Organic Chemistry
• Principal Investigator: Daniel Rinaldo
• Grantee: Gabriela Cremasco
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Ciências (FC). Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP). Campus de Bauru. Bauru , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 25/03036-3 - ECOLOGICAL APPROACH FOR EXTRACTING AND ANALYSIS OF VALUABLE COMPOUNDS IN AGRICULTURAL BY-PRODUCTS AND MEDICINAL PLANTS, AP.R

Abstract

The growing concern with sustainability has driven the search for innovative alternatives to valorize agro-industrial residues, promoting the adoption of methodologies aligned with the principles of green chemistry. In this context, the extraction of bioactive compounds from agricultural by-products, such as sugarcane bagasse, represents a promising strategy to add value to these residues while simultaneously reducing environmental impacts associated with improper disposal and the use of conventional solvents. Among the emerging approaches, Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents (NADES) have stood out as environmentally friendly alternatives due to their biodegradability, low toxicity, and high efficiency in extracting secondary metabolites.However, despite their potential, knowledge gaps remain regarding their performance in complex lignocellulosic matrices and the stability of the extracted compounds under varying environmental conditions. Therefore, the present study proposes the use of NADES for the extraction of high value-added compounds from sugarcane by-products, employing advanced process intensification techniques such as microwave and ultrasound-assisted extraction. In parallel, the study will investigate extraction using Microwave and Gravity Hydrodiffusion (MHG), a solvent-free technique.The characterization of the extracts will enable the evaluation of their chemical composition, stability, and potential biotechnological applications. In addition to assessing the efficiency and selectivity of the extraction methods, the study will also focus on developing a green chromatographic method for extract analysis, as well as evaluating the stability of the extracted compounds under different storage conditions. The efficiency and sustainability of the processes will be assessed using green chemistry metrics, allowing for a holistic approach that integrates scientific innovation with environmental responsibility. Thus, this work aims to contribute to the advancement of sustainable strategies for agro-industrial waste valorization, fostering the development of efficient and environmentally viable processes with potential biomedical and technological applications.