Evaluation of Selenium-Based Biocides with Biocidal Potential for Cultural Heritage Applications

The conservation of cultural heritage has long garnered significant attention within the scientific community, particularly due to the biodeterioration processes driven by microbial colonization. These processes can severely compromise the aesthetic, chemical, and physical integrity of artworks. While traditional chemical biocides are widely used, they present notable drawbacks, including toxicity, chemical instability, and the risk of inducing microbial resistance. Accordingly, efforts to expand the repertoire of molecules with biocidal activity are of utmost significance. In this study, we report the synthesis and characterization of selenium-based biocides with biocidal activity. Characterization was performed using NMR spectroscopy and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The biocidal efficacy of these compounds was evaluated via algal growth inhibition tests (OECD 201), employing Raphidocelis subcapitata as a model organism. Our results indicate that certain seleno-sugars exhibit a dose-dependent inhibition of algal growth, suggesting superior biocidal activity compared to conventional agents. Notably, one compound demonstrated an optimal balance of efficacy and chemical stability and was selected for subsequent in vivo testing.