Sustainable Chemical Biorefining: Sustainable Transformation of Olefins and PET Monomers into Bioactive Organochalcogenides via Green Catalysis

• Grant number: 25/23995-5
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Program to Stimulate Scientific Vocations
• Start date: April 01, 2026
• End date: May 20, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Physical Sciences and Mathematics - Chemistry - Organic Chemistry
• Principal Investigator: Sumbal Saba
• Grantee: Maria Clara Zoratini
• Host Institution: Instituto de Química. Universidade Federal de Goiás (UFG). Goiânia , SP, Brazil

Abstract

This research project proposes an innovative approach at the interface of green chemistry, biotechnology, and medicinal chemistry, aiming to transform substances derived from the degradation of PET plastics into high-value-added bioactive compounds through sustainable catalytic methodologies. The growing environmental concern regarding plastic waste, especially PET, demands innovative solutions that go beyond simple mechanical recycling. The enzymatic degradation of PET by PETases generates monomers such as Ethylene Glycol and Terephthalic Acid, which are traditionally underutilized. Simultaneously, organochalcogen compounds (containing sulfur and selenium) have demonstrated significant biological activity, including anticancer, antileishmanial, and neuroprotective properties.The project seeks to develop methodologies for the functionalization of olefins and PET monomers with chalcogens using non-metallic catalysts under green conditions, eliminating heavy metals and toxic solvents. It aims to synthesize organochalcogen compounds with potential trypanocidal, leishmanicidal, and antitumor activity, thereby transforming plastic waste into functionalized molecules of pharmacological interest.The experimental strategy begins with model reactions of styrene with diorganoyl dichalcogenides mediated by catalysts such as TCCA, KIO¿, and/or NH¿I under microwave irradiation. After optimization, the conditions will be applied to natural bioactive substrates (lapachol, lawsone, nor-lapachol) and to monomers derived from PET. The use of microwave irradiation reduces reaction times and energy consumption, aligning with the principles of green chemistry.The project presents contributions in multiple dimensions: environmental (valorization of plastic waste), scientific (development of sustainable catalytic methodologies), social (advanced interdisciplinary training), and in visibility, strengthening the role of Prof. Sumbal Saba as a mother and woman in science in the Central-West region (empowering the role of women in science in the Central-West). The synthesized compounds will be submitted for biological evaluation for anticancer, antileishmanial, and anti-Alzheimer's activities in collaboration with partners in the field.The 50-days plan includes: literature review and training, reagent preparation and reaction optimization, expansion to bioactive substrates and characterization, and finalization with a technical report and scientific outreach material.This work represents a model of sustainable chemical biorefining, integrating polymer recycling with the synthesis of bioactive molecules, contributing to a circular economy and the development of potential drugs through environmentally responsible routes.Finally, I believe that the participation of the student Maria Clara Zoratini in this internship represents an essential opportunity for her development as a young woman in science, strengthening her trajectory and confidence to pursue a career in the fields of biotechnology, sustainable chemistry, and medicinal chemistry. (AU)