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Tesis por compendio, [EN] The present study is part of the work carried out in the MEKINOX project (Mécanique Inoxydable - FUI n° 11) conducted by aeronautical industry with the main goal of developing new stainless steels for manufacturing high mechanical performance parts. Martensitic stainless steels are widely used in a great variety of industrial applications (i.e. valves, pumps, turbines, compressor components) where high mechanical properties as strength, wear resistance and fatigue behavior are needed. In many of those applications, such as bearings or gears, martensitic stainless steels may be subject to tribological conditions leading to wear. Furthermore, when a contact operates in a corrosive environment its deterioration can be significantly affected by the surface chemical phenomena, leading to a tribocorrosion degradation mechanism. Under this framework, the present Doctoral Thesis aims to evaluate the tribological, corrosion and tribocorrosion behavior of new martensitic stainless steels and their degradation mechanisms for aeronautical applications. For this, electrochemical, tribo-electrochemical and ex-situ surface analysis techniques were used. Wear damage was found to be critically affected by the hardness of the material and its hardening during sliding. Martensitic stainless steels showed higher scratch wear resistance but higher wear material loss when compared to the austenitic stainless steel. Corrosion resistance of martensitic stainless steels is driven by their passivity, whose kinetics can be described through a high field conduction model. Passive dissolution rate depends on the surface chemistry of the material, thus decreasing with the Cr content in the passive film. Degradation mechanisms involved in tribocorrosion of martensitic stainless steels included plastic deformation, shakedown and low-cycle fatigue. The consequences of those involved mechanisms depended on the prevailing electrochemical conditions., [ES] El presente estudio es parte del trabajo realizado en el proyecto MEKINOX (Mécanique Inoxydable - FUI n° 11) llevado a cabo por la industria aeronáutica, con el objetivo principal de desarrollar nuevos aceros inoxidables para la fabricación de piezas con altas prestaciones mecánicas. Los aceros inoxidables martensíticos son ampliamente utilizados en una gran variedad de aplicaciones industriales (p.e. válvulas, bombas, turbinas, componentes de compresores...) donde altas propiedades mecánicas, como la resistencia al desgaste y a la fatiga son requeridos. En muchas de estas aplicaciones, tales como rodamientos o engranajes, los aceros inoxidables martensíticos pueden estar sujetos a condiciones tribológicas que conducen al desgaste. Además, cuando un contacto opera en un ambiente corrosivo su deterioro puede verse afectado de manera significativa por los fenómenos químicos de superficie, lo que conduce a un mecanismo de degradación de tribocorrosión. Bajo este contexto, la presente Tesis Doctoral tiene como objetivo evaluar el comportamiento tribológico, frente a la corrosión y a la tribocorrosión de nuevos aceros inoxidables martensíticos y sus mecanismos de degradación en aplicaciones aeronáuticas. Para ello, se han utilizado técnicas electroquímicas, tribo-electroquímicas y de análisis de superficie ex situ. El desgaste depende de la dureza del material y de su endurecimiento durante el deslizamiento. Los aceros inoxidables martensíticos tienen una mayor resistencia al rallado pero una mayor pérdida de material en el ensayo tribológico de desgaste si se compara con el acero inoxidable austenítico. La resistencia a la corrosión de los aceros inoxidables martensíticos es promovida por su pasividad, cuya cinética puede ser descrita a través de un modelo tipo high field. La velocidad de disolución pasiva depende de la química de la superficie del material, disminuyendo por lo tanto con el contenido de Cr en la película pasiva. Los mecanismos de degradación de tri, [CA] El present estudi és part del treball realitzat al projecte MEKINOX (Mécanique Inoxydable - FUI n° 11) dut a terme per la indústria aeronàutica, amb l'objectiu principal de desenvolupar nous acers inoxidables per a la fabricació de peces amb altes prestacions mecàniques. Els acers inoxidables martensítics són utilitzats en una gran varietat d'aplicacions industrials (vàlvules, bombes, turbines, components de compressors...) on altes propietats mecàniques, com la resistència al desgast i a la fatiga són requerits. En moltes d'aquestes aplicacions, com rodaments o engranatges, els acers inoxidables martensítics poden estar subjectes a condicions tribològiques que condueixen al desgast. Ademés, quan un contacte opera dins un ambient corrosiu el seu deteriorament es pot veure afectat de manera significativa pels fenòmens químics de superfície, el que condueix a un mecanisme de degradació de tribocorrosió. Sota aquest context, la present Tesi Doctoral té com a objectiu evaluar el comportament tribològic, front a la corrosió i a la tribocorrosió de nous acers inoxidables martensítics i els seus mecanismes de degradació en aplicacions aeronàutiques. Per tot això, es van utilitzar tècniques electroquímiques, tribo-electroquímiques i d'anàlisi de superfície ex-situ. El desgast depen de la duresa del material i del seu enduriment durant el lliscament. Els acers inoxidables martensítics van mostrar una major resistència al ratllat però una major pèrdua de material en l'assaig tribològic de desgast si es compara amb l'acer inoxidable austenític. La resistència a la corrosió dels acers inoxidables martensítics és promoguda per la seva passivitat, i la seua la cinètica pot ser descrita a través d'un model de tipus high field. La velocitat de dissolució passiva depen de la química de la superfície del material, disminuint per tant amb el contingut de Cr a la pel.lícula passiva. Els mecanismes de degradació en tribocorrosió dels acers inoxidables martensítics inclouen deformac

Tesis por compendio, [EN] The present study is part of the work carried out in the MEKINOX project (Mécanique Inoxydable - FUI n° 11) conducted by aeronautical industry with the main goal of developing new stainless steels for manufacturing high mechanical performance parts. Martensitic stainless steels are widely used in a great variety of industrial applications (i.e. valves, pumps, turbines, compressor components) where high mechanical properties as strength, wear resistance and fatigue behavior are needed. In many of those applications, such as bearings or gears, martensitic stainless steels may be subject to tribological conditions leading to wear. Furthermore, when a contact operates in a corrosive environment its deterioration can be significantly affected by the surface chemical phenomena, leading to a tribocorrosion degradation mechanism. Under this framework, the present Doctoral Thesis aims to evaluate the tribological, corrosion and tribocorrosion behavior of new martensitic stainless steels and their degradation mechanisms for aeronautical applications. For this, electrochemical, tribo-electrochemical and ex-situ surface analysis techniques were used. Wear damage was found to be critically affected by the hardness of the material and its hardening during sliding. Martensitic stainless steels showed higher scratch wear resistance but higher wear material loss when compared to the austenitic stainless steel. Corrosion resistance of martensitic stainless steels is driven by their passivity, whose kinetics can be described through a high field conduction model. Passive dissolution rate depends on the surface chemistry of the material, thus decreasing with the Cr content in the passive film. Degradation mechanisms involved in tribocorrosion of martensitic stainless steels included plastic deformation, shakedown and low-cycle fatigue. The consequences of those involved mechanisms depended on the prevailing electrochemical conditions., [ES] El presente estudio es parte del trabajo realizado en el proyecto MEKINOX (Mécanique Inoxydable - FUI n° 11) llevado a cabo por la industria aeronáutica, con el objetivo principal de desarrollar nuevos aceros inoxidables para la fabricación de piezas con altas prestaciones mecánicas. Los aceros inoxidables martensíticos son ampliamente utilizados en una gran variedad de aplicaciones industriales (p.e. válvulas, bombas, turbinas, componentes de compresores...) donde altas propiedades mecánicas, como la resistencia al desgaste y a la fatiga son requeridos. En muchas de estas aplicaciones, tales como rodamientos o engranajes, los aceros inoxidables martensíticos pueden estar sujetos a condiciones tribológicas que conducen al desgaste. Además, cuando un contacto opera en un ambiente corrosivo su deterioro puede verse afectado de manera significativa por los fenómenos químicos de superficie, lo que conduce a un mecanismo de degradación de tribocorrosión. Bajo este contexto, la presente Tesis Doctoral tiene como objetivo evaluar el comportamiento tribológico, frente a la corrosión y a la tribocorrosión de nuevos aceros inoxidables martensíticos y sus mecanismos de degradación en aplicaciones aeronáuticas. Para ello, se han utilizado técnicas electroquímicas, tribo-electroquímicas y de análisis de superficie ex situ. El desgaste depende de la dureza del material y de su endurecimiento durante el deslizamiento. Los aceros inoxidables martensíticos tienen una mayor resistencia al rallado pero una mayor pérdida de material en el ensayo tribológico de desgaste si se compara con el acero inoxidable austenítico. La resistencia a la corrosión de los aceros inoxidables martensíticos es promovida por su pasividad, cuya cinética puede ser descrita a través de un modelo tipo high field. La velocidad de disolución pasiva depende de la química de la superficie del material, disminuyendo por lo tanto con el contenido de Cr en la película pasiva. Los mecanismos de degradación de tri, [CA] El present estudi és part del treball realitzat al projecte MEKINOX (Mécanique Inoxydable - FUI n° 11) dut a terme per la indústria aeronàutica, amb l'objectiu principal de desenvolupar nous acers inoxidables per a la fabricació de peces amb altes prestacions mecàniques. Els acers inoxidables martensítics són utilitzats en una gran varietat d'aplicacions industrials (vàlvules, bombes, turbines, components de compressors...) on altes propietats mecàniques, com la resistència al desgast i a la fatiga són requerits. En moltes d'aquestes aplicacions, com rodaments o engranatges, els acers inoxidables martensítics poden estar subjectes a condicions tribològiques que condueixen al desgast. Ademés, quan un contacte opera dins un ambient corrosiu el seu deteriorament es pot veure afectat de manera significativa pels fenòmens químics de superfície, el que condueix a un mecanisme de degradació de tribocorrosió. Sota aquest context, la present Tesi Doctoral té com a objectiu evaluar el comportament tribològic, front a la corrosió i a la tribocorrosió de nous acers inoxidables martensítics i els seus mecanismes de degradació en aplicacions aeronàutiques. Per tot això, es van utilitzar tècniques electroquímiques, tribo-electroquímiques i d'anàlisi de superfície ex-situ. El desgast depen de la duresa del material i del seu enduriment durant el lliscament. Els acers inoxidables martensítics van mostrar una major resistència al ratllat però una major pèrdua de material en l'assaig tribològic de desgast si es compara amb l'acer inoxidable austenític. La resistència a la corrosió dels acers inoxidables martensítics és promoguda per la seva passivitat, i la seua la cinètica pot ser descrita a través d'un model de tipus high field. La velocitat de dissolució passiva depen de la química de la superfície del material, disminuint per tant amb el contingut de Cr a la pel.lícula passiva. Els mecanismes de degradació en tribocorrosió dels acers inoxidables martensítics inclouen deformac

La obra lleva a cabo una recopilación sobre desarrollos prácticos y cuestiones claves sobre algunas de las técnicas o etapas más comunes presentes en los procesos de la ingeniería química. Algunos procesos experimentales claves en la industria, como las extracciones líquido-líquido, procesos de tamizado, procesos industriales con transferencia de oxígeno, funcionamiento de los diferentes tipos de reactores químicos, captación de contaminantes mediante carbón activo, etc. son estudiados desde un punto de vista práctico en el documento. En la obra se pueden encontrar introducciones teóricas muy concretas acerca de cada una de las técnicas, el equipamiento necesario para llevar a cabo una experiencia práctica y la toma de datos y parámetros clave a determinar en cada proceso.

In the present research project, the effectiveness of nanofiltration membranes (YMDKSP1905) and reverse osmosis (YMAGSP1905) in the separation of two drugs sulfamethoxazole and ciprofloxacin was evaluated; also analyze the effect of pH and transmembrane pressure in the drug removal process. For experimentation, the SEPA CF II cross-flow membrane cell was used. Each of the membranes used were characterized, circulating pure water inside the system at different pressures 15, 12, 10, 5 bar and taking the flow rate every 20 minutes, for 1 hour and 40 minutes for each pressure tested; thus, obtaining the coefficient of permeability. The effectiveness of the membranes to remove the drugs in solutions of approximately 5 ppm adjusted to a working pH of 5, 7 and 9 was evaluated; the samples being quantified by HPLC chromatography. The recirculation process is carried out in a time of 3 hours. Based on the response surfaces carried out, it was possible to determine that the optimal operating values for the removal of SMX in water or mixed with CPX in water using RO are pH = 7 and P = 10 bar; and using NF are: pH = 9 and P = 15 bar; conditions under which the highest percentages of rejection were reached. The statistical analysis of the results obtained showed that the pH of the solution strongly influences the drug removal process and the simulations carried out in SuperPro Designer yielded results like those obtained in the laboratory, with an absolute error of less than 5%, in each simulated case. Finally, the preliminary estimate of investment and operation costs of the removal process are $1797480.6 and $ 8720.0, respectively, denoting that equipment costs and direct operating costs are the most influential in this drug removal process.

The study investigated the efficacy of chia seed mucilage (CSM) as a stabilizer in tree tomato nectar, in contrast to the traditional use of carboxymethylcellulose (CMC), which has been questioned for its impact on product properties. Quantitative experimental tests were conducted, and CSM was obtained through three techniques, with freeze-drying showing the best performance (0.12%). Five treatments were carried out to assess the effect of CSM (T1: no stabilizer, T2: CMC at 0.1%, T3: CSM 0.1%, T4: CSM 0.3%, T5: CSM 0.5%). An experimental design was applied, and six variables were evaluated over 60 days, including pH, titratable acidity, soluble solids (°Bx), suspended solids, turbidity, and viscosity. Statistical analysis identified significant differences. Treatment T4 with CSM at 0.3% demonstrated outstanding results, with stability in soluble solids (13.7 °Bx), reduced variability in suspended solids (55.0 ml to 61.0 ml), and high turbidity (2.025 UA to 1.770 UA). The addition of CSM improved the nectar's appearance without affecting the taste, odor, or acidity, resulting in greater overall acceptance.

For this research it was conducted as a quantitative experiment, where the objective was to evaluate the effect of the application of an edible coating based on cassava starch and Aloe vera gel on the preservation of peaches (Prunus persica L) during the post-harvest stage. Based on a completely randomized design, four different formulations of the edible coating were prepared with cassava starch (2% and 3%), Aloe vera gel (25% and 35%) and 1% glycerol, which were applied by immersion for 1 minute on peaches previously disinfected with a 50 ppm chlorine solution. These were stored at 20°C for 9 days, and at 4°C for 14 days. Physicochemical analyses of firmness, loss of weight, total soluble solids, pH, titratable acidity and microbiological analysis of molds and yeasts counts were performed. Treatment 5 (35% Aloe vera gel, 2% cassava starch and 1% glycerol) and treatment 4 (25% Aloe vera gel, 3% cassava starch and 1% glycerol) were the best for temperatures of 20°C and 4°C respectively, since, in general, they allowed the formation of a barrier against gases by delaying the loss of weight and firmness, maintaining relatively stable soluble solids, pH and acidity; they also showed a lower count of molds and yeasts due to the antifungal action of the coating. The edible coating was imperceptible and accepted by consumers, and presented a justified cost in relation to the benefits obtained.

Glazed tiles made in artisan workshops often have poor water absorption and bending resistance values. These parameters are important as they define the quality of the tile. This research aims to improve the water absorption of glazed ceramic tiles from a craft workshop in the Racar sector at firing temperatures below 1000°C, seeking compliance with the value required in the INEN 990 standard. To this end, the characterization of the raw materials and the paste, the influence of grinding on the plasticity and contraction parameters was studied, and mixtures were formulated by varying the dosage in order to obtain the optimal parameters that allow reducing water absorption. In addition, the glaze firing temperatures of 850°C, 900°C and 950°C were analyzed in order to define an ideal temperature for the production of tiles. The glaze firing temperature that provided the best results was 950°C and the optimal mixture found corresponds to x1=30%; x2=20%; x3=50%; from which curved glazed tiles were obtained that have values of 81.40 kg/cm2 for flexural resistance and 14.19% for water absorption, and flat glazed tiles with values of 74.90 kg/cm2 for mechanical resistance and 15.22% for water absorption. With this, an improvement was achieved with respect to the values obtained with the artisans' dosage in curved and flat glazed tiles of 20.3% for bending resistance and 19.08% for water absorption (in curved tiles); and 23% for flexural resistance and 16% for water absorption (in flat tiles); which entails an approach to the INEN 990 standard.

The objective of this study is to obtain the dosing curve of type A aluminum sulfate coagulant, for module II of the Tixán Drinking Water Treatment Plant. For this process, it was based on obtaining two dosing curves, the first with synthetic water and the second with raw water, made up of optimal dose vs. turbidity. The curves were obtained through statistical analysis in the Microsoft Excel program. In addition, the costs within the coagulation and flocculation process with the two types of aluminum sulfate (A and B) were analyzed, where it was obtained that the operating cost with type A aluminum sulfate coagulant is lower compared to aluminum sulfate. type B aluminum. The sampling, transport and conservation of the raw water samples were carried out under the NTE INEN 2176 and NTE INEN 2169 standards. Due to climatic fluctuations in the city of Cuenca during the months of January, February, March, April and Raw water samples with different turbidity values were taken in May. The synthetic water samples were prepared in the laboratory by mixing raw water with kaolin. The optimal doses of each of the water samples, both for the synthetic and for the raw, were found through jar tests, taking into account the initial and final values of pH, color and turbidity. These tests were developed in the laboratory of Environmental Analysis of the University of Cuenca.

The feasibility of using different substitutes in the production of Vienna-type chicken sausages was evaluated in this thesis, with the purpose of eliminating saturated fat, reducing sodium and replacing potassium sorbate in the traditional formulation. The substitutes tested were corn oil, potassium chloride, and essential oils of cinnamon, ginger, and thyme. Initially, substitution combinations were prepared in the sausage formulation, including different ratios of NaCl and KCl, which were labelled Method 1, Method 2 and Method 3, together with the complete replacement of pork fat with corn oil, and the replacement of potassium sorbate by essential oils. The sausages made under these new formulations were subjected to sensory tests, in which a cohort from a previously calculated sample participated. Method 3 was the most accepted by participants, hence became this research ́s focus. Subsequently, a microbiological analysis was conducted for both Method 3 sausages and the control sample (traditional formulation); these analyzes were conducted in accordance with the NTE INEN 1338 norm. Simultaneously, sample stability was evaluated over a period of 21 days, with measurements every three days. Results from microbiological analyzes and stability tests proved to be favourable. Microbial growth was inexistent, and the pH remained within limits allowed by the norm. These results render the tested substitutions as viable and can be considered as production alternatives for this type of sausage, contributing to the creation of a product based on vegetable preservatives, low sodium content, and without saturated fat.

The current work aimed to extract capsaicin from two chili species, Capsicum chinense and Capsicum pubescens, using the ultrasound-assisted extraction method with ethanol as the solvent. Additionally, the aim was to determine the optimal extraction parameters and compare the performance of ultrasound-assisted extraction with the conventional Soxhlet method. For this purpose, a 32 experimental design was used, considering the extraction time and the volumetric fraction of ethanol as factors, with levels set at 10, 20, and 30 minutes, and 75, 85, and 95%, respectively. A two-factor analysis of variance (ANOVA) was performed, and the Bonferroni statistic was applied to determine the optimal parameters. The results indicated that, for Capsicum chinense, the optimal extraction time was 20 minutes, while for Capsicum pubescens, it was 30 minutes. Furthermore, it was determined that the optimal volumetric fraction of ethanol for both species was 75%, resulting in capsaicin concentrations of 104.7 mg/L and 68.1 mg/L respectively, thus showing that Capsicum chinense had the highest capsaicin content. Finally, upon comparing the ultrasound-assisted extraction with the conventional Soxhlet method, a clear advantage of the ultrasound-assisted method was evidenced, as it reduced the extraction time, energy consumption, and operated at lower temperatures than the Soxhlet method.

This work simulates and evaluates technically and economically the production of biodiesel from microalgae as third generation feedstock. For this purpose, the lipid composition extracted from the microalgae Chlorella established in the facultative and maturation ponds of the Ucubamba Wastewater Treatment Plant is investigated, and a weighted composition is set to simulate the process using the Aspen Plus® V.11 software. A diagram of two scenarios is applied, a standard process (process I) and an optimized process (process II); initially, secondary information is collected from different systems for obtaining methyl esters and a model is built that presents transesterification, distillation, separation, and purification operations, and finally a biodiesel flow of 1042 kg/h is reached, with a capital cost and production cost of 4'211,330 and 1'714,880 USD, respectively. On the other hand, by optimizing the process, it is possible to build a second model, which consists of unit operations that are partially different from the first one, such as a double reaction of transesterification, decantation, and separation. In this case, two more units per hour of production and lower capital and production costs (3'740,420 USD and 1'308,260 USD) are obtained. Consequently, the total technological costs are compared and contrasted in addition to those produced per kg of biodiesel, being 0.94 and 0.81 USD for process I and II, respectively. The second prospect is considered as the optimum compared to the standard process and values reported in the literature.

This study was conducted at the "Tixán" Drinking Water Treatment Plant in Cuenca, with the objective of substituting aluminum sulfate with poly aluminum chloride (PAC) as a coagulant due to its enhanced efficiency in turbidity removal, reduced residual aluminum content, and a broader pH operational range. The primary goal is to determine the optimal PAC dosage as a coagulant to meet color, pH, and turbidity parameters in accordance with established standards. Initially, a fixed dosage of an anionic polyacrylamide-based (PA) flocculant was determined through jar tests, followed by experiments involving the PAC coagulant. Water samples were collected from the plant during the months of March, April, May and June 2023. Eleven trials were conducted to evaluate various amounts of PAC (10, 15, 20, 25, 30, and 35 ppm) and determine which achieved the highest turbidity removal in raw water. The results from 11 trials indicated that the optimal PAC dosages fell within the range of 15 to 25 ppm, aligning with the prescribed standards for turbidity, color, and pH as per the NTE INEN 1108:2020 Standard. These findings enabled the development of an optimal dosing curve, following a logarithmic regression model with a coefficient of determination of 65.75%. Additionally, it was determined that the most influential parameters affecting turbidity removal percentage were the initial turbidity level and the applied PAC dosage. Response surface methodology confirmed that as raw water turbidity increases, higher removal percentages are achieved, and the PAC dosage also increases, consistently staying within the 15 to 25 ppm range.

This study aimed to evaluate the coagulation-flocculation power of potato residues for the removal of turbidity and color in water intended for human consumption through the use of a natural coagulant. First, the natural coagulant was obtained from potato peel residues, later the characterization of the coagulant was carried out, where 4.575% humidity, 0.092% ash, 0.101% protein, and 14.017% starch were determined. The study of the evaluation of the coagulant capacity of potato residues was carried out at the Mahuarcay Treatment Plant, for which different concentrations of coagulant were prepared to carry out the jar test, and it was also compared with aluminum sulfate, obtaining optimal doses. between 15 - 210 ppm for an initial turbidity of 11.9 to 428 NTU with natural coagulant and 15 - 60 ppm for an initial turbidity of 14.1 to 425 NTU with commercial coagulant. With these results, dosage curves for the natural coagulant and the commercial coagulant were prepared. The removal efficiency of the natural coagulant was 54.94% for turbidity and 23.92% for color, determining that the natural coagulant from potato residues has a greater coagulant capacity to remove turbidity and less for color. While with commercial coagulant the removal percentage was 95.83% for turbidity and 93.14% for color, demonstrating that it is more effective than the natural coagulant for the removal of both parameters.

The production of biopolymers represents a promising solution to the increasing pollution caused by petroleum-derived plastics. Among these, polymeric compounds obtained from starch are of great interest, due to their easy elaboration, adaptability to existing manufacturing processes and low raw material cost; however, compared to traditional plastics, their properties are not very favorable for their use at industrial level. In the present work, a biodegradable starch film was obtained using the wet molding method, from an uncommon and locally abundant raw material, such as pumpkin, together with glycerol (plasticizer) and cellulose fibers (reinforcement) obtained from sugarcane bagasse. In addition, the influence of the components was evaluated by means of a factorial analysis 2 . This film was characterized by measuring its mechanical and thermal properties, water absorption, vapor permeability, functional group analysis and degradability. The results showed that 3% starch by weight, 50% glycerol and 8% cellulose in relation to the weight of starch, the latter being the factor with the greatest influence as the best formulation. The film presented a low degradation rate, but exhibited favorable properties for this type of composites, such as a tensile strength of 24.29 MPa, elongation of 6.38%, water absorption of 44.81% and a permeability of 0.46x10 3 g/m∙s∙Pa. These values, however, will need to be further improved to compete with traditional plastics.

In this research work, it was studied the obtaining of a biological surfactant produced from the fermentation of cheese whey as a carbon source, using Streptococcus thermophilus bacteria. The fermentation process was carried out for 72 h at 37 °C. Then, it was centrifuged at 4000 rpm for 30 minutes to remove waste. The separation of the biosurfactant was carried out by the acid precipitation method and it was dried in an oven at 40o C. A weight of 0.1 g of biosurfactant was obtained for every 100 ml of cheese whey used. To optimize the production of the biosurfactant, a complete factorial design of three levels and two factors was carried out, with the response variable being the amount of surfactant obtained. The main effects of temperature (38, 40 and 42 oC), time (24, 48 and 72 hours) and their combination were evaluated. It was found that the main effects of temperature and time were significant, in addition to their interaction. It was found that the highest performance with respect to biosurfactant production was obtained at a temperature of 40oC and a time of 48 hours. The characterization confirmed the presence of the biosurfactant, several qualitative and quantitative tests were performed: hemolytic activity, Parafilm, oil dispersion, emulsification index (63.64%) and surface tension (52.7 mN/m). In addition, an ecotoxicity test was carried out with Daphnia magna and after carrying out the bioremediation test to corroborate that the biosurfactants are environmentally friendly. Finally, during the 45 days of the bioremediation process, the biosurfactant combined with microorganism achieve a motor oil removal of more than 50%.

In the history of the animal feed industry, base meal is made with the purpose of containing a high percentage of protein, which is a crucial part of this industry, thus contributing to the manufacture of this meal, industrially there are three types of meal; grain-based, fish-based and chicken-based. Due to this, a base flour was elaborated using the residues of the white entrails of chicken, emphasizing that with this, the waste of the poultry industry was used and a source of contamination was reduced. In order to obtain a product suitable for animal consumption, a physical-chemical procedure was used; at the beginning, washing was carried out, followed by two methods, the first one with a thermal treatment and the second one with a chemical treatment, to obtain an applicable method, in the same process, drying was used, as well as grinding and packaging. In the end, a base flour with high protein levels was produced with both the thermal and chemical methods, nutritional composition and microbiological quality were evaluated. Finally, a comparison was made between the physical and chemical methods, and the profitability of both processes, thus concluding that both methods are feasible, however, one stands out from the other, since its self-sustainability, nutritional value and the complete inhibition of the microbial load of chicken entrails are considered.

The SFEE technology was used to micronize the food-approved-biopolymer Eudraguard® protect. After setting the ratio of emulsion phases to 20:80 ethyl acetate:water, higher surfactant (0.1–10.0%) and lower polymer (1–10%) concentrations reduced the size of the particles. By halving the stirring speed to 1250 rpm during the homogenization of the emulsion, larger particles were formed. All these manipulations allowed the creation of particles ranging from 10 nm to 200 nm. A higher viscosity of the organic phase, achieved with 2% vitamin E, increased the particle size to 300 nm. Afterwards, SFEE was used to encapsulate hydroxytyrosol-rich olive oil (HT-oil), obtained from alperujo, in Eudraguard® protect for its preservation. Spherical non-aggregate particles were formed with an average of 230 nm. High degrees of encapsulation were possible (up to 99%) resulting in loadings of HT-oil in the obtained particles of 39% with 0.7 mg HT per g of particle., Ministry of Science, Innovation and Universities of Spain; Bolívar Gana con Ciencia, Depto. de Ingeniería Química y de Materiales, Fac. de Ciencias Químicas, TRUE, pub

Producción Científica, Synthetic co-cultures can enhance pollutant bioconversion performance through synergistic effects among co-existing species. In this study, the potential of Methylocystis hirsuta and Methylocystis parvus to support poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) (PHB) production in co-cultivation with Rhodococcus opacus and Pseudomonas putida under a CH4:O2 atmosphere was assessed batchwise. The metabolic activation of almost all co-cultures studied was faster than that of single strain cultures, bringing higher methane and oxygen consumption rates. Higher PHB yields were achieved when coupling M. hirsuta with R. opacus (63 % w w−1) or with R. opacus and P. putida (64.4 % w w−1) compared to M. hirsuta alone (38.5 % w w−1). Interestingly, the combination of both R. opacus and P. putida with M. parvus reduced PHB accumulation to 42.2 % w w−1 compared to the content observed in M. parvus monocultures (62.2 % w w−1) and M parvus + R. opacus co-cultures (66.6 % w w−1)., Junta de Castilla y León - EU-FEDER [CL-EI-2021-07 y UIC 315], Ministry of Economic Development through the “Fondo per la Crescita Sostenibile – Sportello “Agrifood” PON I&C 2014-2020” (Prog. n. F/200125/01-03/X45)

Producción Científica, The conference has the objective to gather academics, researchers, and companies in an international forum to promote the application of green chemistry and sustainable technologies into industries with the environment, innovation, economy, and policy aspects in focus.

This study seeks to compare two natural fining agents such as: Cassia didimobotrya and Moringa Oleifera, versus unflavored gelatin, perform the Physical-Chemical and Microbiological tests, evaluating the capacity as a fining agent, changes in its constitution and finally a sensory test of an untrained panel. . The shaking method was used to integrate the clarifier with the solution to be clarified, controlling time and revolutions per minute (rpm). For the concentrations, a Box Behnken experimental method was proposed with 3 factors and 2 levels, giving a total of 15 treatments. The response variables Turbidity falls within the acceptable range for craft beer, with values of 65.5 NTU (Nephelometric Turbidity Unit) for cassia and 52.9 NTU for moringa, with recommended concentrations of 1g/L of cassia and 0.5g/L of moringa the latter without 1% sodium chloride treatment. On the other hand, the color also falls into the range of craft beer with 11.13 EBC (European Brewery Convention) for cassia and 10.7 EBC for moringa, colors that are found in the reference table and are within similar beers, such as ; American Pale Ale or India Pale Ale. The results of the sensory analysis where they were analyzed; appearance, taste, smell and bitterness, with a response range of; 1-5, with 1 being the lowest rating and 5 being the highest rating, finally, the three fining agents have good acceptance in appearance and smell, with ratings 3 and 4, while moringa stands out in flavor with rating 3, cassia has quite a bit of bitterness. , with rating 4

The production of biopolymers represents a promising solution to the increasing pollution caused by petroleum-derived plastics. Among these, polymeric compounds obtained from starch are of great interest, due to their easy elaboration, adaptability to existing manufacturing processes and low raw material cost; however, compared to traditional plastics, their properties are not very favorable for their use at industrial level. In the present work, a biodegradable starch film was obtained using the wet molding method, from an uncommon and locally abundant raw material, such as pumpkin, together with glycerol (plasticizer) and cellulose fibers (reinforcement) obtained from sugarcane bagasse. In addition, the influence of the components was evaluated by means of a factorial analysis 2 . This film was characterized by measuring its mechanical and thermal properties, water absorption, vapor permeability, functional group analysis and degradability. The results showed that 3% starch by weight, 50% glycerol and 8% cellulose in relation to the weight of starch, the latter being the factor with the greatest influence as the best formulation. The film presented a low degradation rate, but exhibited favorable properties for this type of composites, such as a tensile strength of 24.29 MPa, elongation of 6.38%, water absorption of 44.81% and a permeability of 0.46x10 3 g/m∙s∙Pa. These values, however, will need to be further improved to compete with traditional plastics.

This research shows the development of a material based on mycelium, which is the main body of fungi, as an alternative to traditional packaging materials. For this, the mycelium of three types of medicinal and edible mushrooms, Ganoderma Lucidum, Trametes versicolor and Pleurotus ostreatus, and as a substrate for its growth we used cane bagasse. These fungi have been combined in different proportions to evaluate their growth effectiveness by comparing their properties with those of an expanded polystyrene. The results obtained show that mycelial growth is acceptable in tests with mushroom proportions of 33,33% Ganoderma lucidum, 33,33% Trametes versicolor, 33,33% Pleurotus ostreatus and 30% Ganoderma lucidum, 30% Trametes versicolor and 40% Pleurotus ostreatus. However, The growth of mostly aerial mycelium was observed. Although the material presented a high water absorption, it also exhibited favorable properties such as low average densities reaching 0.1698 g/cm and hardness better than that of EPS and be biodegradable. In general, these values do not imply that the biomaterial formed can be used as a substitute for EPS.

The main objective of this degree project is to design a Quality Management System for a small company in the city of Cuenca based on ISO 9001:2015. The methodology carried out for this project begins with a diagnosis through: a survey of information, analysis of the main problem of the company and a checklist to verify the initial state of the organization, in which it is obtained that the level of compliance with the requirements of the standard is 30%. Based on the diagnosis, a planning for the implementation of the Quality Management System is designed. Prioritized activities defined with management are developed and implemented, achieving 98% compliance with the plan. As part of the implementation process, the company's quality manual is created, which serves as a guide for the correct development and performance of the Quality Management System designed. The next step is the final evaluation of the management system being implemented through the checklist of the requirements of ISO 9001:2015, which verifies a scope of compliance of 79.7%, and shows an increase of 49.7% with respect to the initial value; showing that the activities proposed in the design of the system support the improvement, control and performance of the organization and its processes. The final evaluation generates proposals for corrective actions that allow the company to continue and improve the system implementation process.

This work simulates and evaluates technically and economically the production of biodiesel from microalgae as third generation feedstock. For this purpose, the lipid composition extracted from the microalgae Chlorella established in the facultative and maturation ponds of the Ucubamba Wastewater Treatment Plant is investigated, and a weighted composition is set to simulate the process using the Aspen Plus® V.11 software. A diagram of two scenarios is applied, a standard process (process I) and an optimized process (process II); initially, secondary information is collected from different systems for obtaining methyl esters and a model is built that presents transesterification, distillation, separation, and purification operations, and finally a biodiesel flow of 1042 kg/h is reached, with a capital cost and production cost of 4'211,330 and 1'714,880 USD, respectively. On the other hand, by optimizing the process, it is possible to build a second model, which consists of unit operations that are partially different from the first one, such as a double reaction of transesterification, decantation, and separation. In this case, two more units per hour of production and lower capital and production costs (3'740,420 USD and 1'308,260 USD) are obtained. Consequently, the total technological costs are compared and contrasted in addition to those produced per kg of biodiesel, being 0.94 and 0.81 USD for process I and II, respectively. The second prospect is considered as the optimum compared to the standard process and values reported in the literature.

Water pollution caused by hexavalent chromium, originating from effluents generated by chemical industries like tanneries, is a significant concern in our country. On the other hand, Ecuador stands out as one of the leading shrimp-exporting countries, producing large quantities of shrimp shells. It is estimated that this waste amounts to 11 million tons annually, generating an environmental problem. Both issues can be addressed simultaneously by utilizing shrimp shells to create an adsorbent that enables the removal of Cr (VI) from aqueous solutions. In this study, shrimp shells were employed to prepare three types of adsorbents: biochar at pyrolysis temperatures of 350, 500, and 600 °C, designated as BC350, BC500, and BC600 respectively. They underwent characterization through sieving analysis, BET, and infrared spectroscopy. For comparison in the adsorption process, Lolab activated carbon (CA), palm shell activated carbon (CAP), and untreated shrimp shells (CC) were used. The adsorption process was examined in both batch and fixed-bed column experiments. A chromium removal of 100% (within 100 minutes) was achieved when using BC600 during the batch adsorption tests. The BC600-Cr adsorption process correlated (correlation coefficient of 0.97) with pseudo first-order and pseudo second-order kinetic models, indicating that a complex adsorption process took place. As for equilibrium, the Langmuir model demonstrated a better fit, suggesting monolayer adsorption. Finally, it was found that fixed-bed tests (bed height of 20 cm) using BC600 biochar as adsorbents adjusted to the Wang model with a correlation coefficient of 0.95

The ceramic sector is one of the most relevant industries within the country's economy. Its constant growth leads companies producing flat ceramic to optimize their processes and become increasingly more efficient. Then, in the wet grinding and atomizing stages, one of the important variables to control is the deflocculant, which improves the rheology of the ceramic suspension using the least amount of water possible therefore less water to eliminate during atomization, reflected in lower energy consumption. In this degree work, the optimal dosage of the mixture of deflocculants with sodium silicate and sodium polyacrylate from different suppliers was determined, complying with the physicochemical requirements for barbotine established by the company. For the porcelain technology, the two optimal mixtures of deflocculants were: 1) 75% sodium silicate and 25% Spanish polymer and 2) 95% sodium silicate and 5% Mexican polymer, managing to increase the production of atomized powder by 1.55% and 2.54%, respectively, and a total annual economic savings of 4.52% and 17.68%, in each case. On the other hand, in stoneware technology, the optimal mixtures were: 1) 75% sodium silicate and 25% Spanish polymer and 2) 90% sodium silicate and 10% Mexican polymer, increasing the production of atomized powder by 3.05 % and 1.74% with each mixture, linked to a total annual economic savings of 7.29% and 18.45%, respectively.

Sugar cane is a monoculture that occurs in Ecuador on a large scale and when used in the sugar industry, it generates residues such as buds and leaves, which are generally considered as waste. However, these agro-industrial wastes can be converted into feedstock for biofuel production processes. This is the case with the generation of bioethanol. In this work, in order to take advantage of the residues, we first started from the pretreatment of the biomass through the process of steam explosion, the pretreatment was carried out at temperatures of 150, 155, 165 and 180 °C for 1 s and 10 min of residence time. This process produces a residual liquid rich in degradation products of cellulose and hemicellulose. These products were hydrolyzed for 72 h in a reactor, at two temperatures (45 and 50 °C) and agitation speed (50 and 200 rpm), in the presence of cellulase and B-glucosidase, (enzymes that break the bonds between the monosaccharides to obtain sugars capable of being fermented in a bioreactor at different temperature conditions (25-35 °C)). The resulting sugars were quantified using the Dubois method (phenol-sulfuric). For the best condition evaluated, an increase of 71. 7 g/L of sugars was obtained, with respect to the initial concentration of hydrolysis (50 °C, 200 rpm, enzyme Cellic Ctec 2) which used the vapour explosion liquids at 180 °C for 10 minutes, with three recirculations. The sugar-rich liquid was then used to produce ethanol, which was quantified using the distillation method and the pycnometer method, obtaining a concentration of 87 g/L.

The physicochemical characteristics, aluminum content, free residual chlorine, and caffeine content of drinking water from three water treatment plants in the city of Cuenca were studied during May and July 2023, which correspond severally to rainy and summery seasons. The potable water treatment plants studied were: Tixán, which is supplied by the Machángara River; Cebollar, supplied by the Tomebamba river; and Sustag, whose source of supply is the Yanuncay River. Seven sampling points were set down per water treatment plant, two inside the plant (intake and outlet), and five random points, that were taken from official distribution Etapa EP’s diagram. A total of 210 samples were collected. They were examined to free residual chlorine, aluminum, pH, color, turbidity, and conductivity. In addition, the samples were solid-phase extracted and analyzed by HPLC-UV for caffeine content. The results indicated that residual free chlorine, aluminum content, pH, color, and turbidity did not exceed the maximum permissible limits established by the corresponding standards, TULSMA and NTE INEN-1108. None of the samples indicated caffeine presence. In general, there were no significant differences between seasons or potable water treatment plants. In conclusion, it was proved that studied potable water achieves to requirements set on local standards.

The feasibility of using different substitutes in the production of Vienna-type chicken sausages was evaluated in this thesis, with the purpose of eliminating saturated fat, reducing sodium and replacing potassium sorbate in the traditional formulation. The substitutes tested were corn oil, potassium chloride, and essential oils of cinnamon, ginger, and thyme. Initially, substitution combinations were prepared in the sausage formulation, including different ratios of NaCl and KCl, which were labelled Method 1, Method 2 and Method 3, together with the complete replacement of pork fat with corn oil, and the replacement of potassium sorbate by essential oils. The sausages made under these new formulations were subjected to sensory tests, in which a cohort from a previously calculated sample participated. Method 3 was the most accepted by participants, hence became this research ́s focus. Subsequently, a microbiological analysis was conducted for both Method 3 sausages and the control sample (traditional formulation); these analyzes were conducted in accordance with the NTE INEN 1338 norm. Simultaneously, sample stability was evaluated over a period of 21 days, with measurements every three days. Results from microbiological analyzes and stability tests proved to be favourable. Microbial growth was inexistent, and the pH remained within limits allowed by the norm. These results render the tested substitutions as viable and can be considered as production alternatives for this type of sausage, contributing to the creation of a product based on vegetable preservatives, low sodium content, and without saturated fat.

This research was of a quantitative experimental type, and its objective was to establish a relationship between changes in chemical formulations and the physical-mechanical properties of flexible polyurethane foams (PUF). A 23 factorial design was employed, where the selected factors were amino catalyst (AM), organometallic catalyst (OE), and silicone (SI). The selected levels involved variations of ± 0.2, ± 0.3, and ± 0.5, relative to the standard PUF formulation with a density of 10 kg/m3. The experiments were carried out following the company's testing procedures. These experiments included the evaluation of physical-mechanical properties such as density, with an average of 11.32 kg/m3 ± 0.69 kg/m3; resilience, with an average of 27.52% ± 3.28%; hardness B, with an average of 186.33 N ± 37.40 N; tensile strength, with an average of 50.19 kPa ± 2.39 kPa; elongation at break, with an average of 63.55% ± 11.32%; and fire behavior, with an average of 3.42 mm/s ± 0.20 mm/s. Consequently, it was observed that higher levels of AM and OE improved density and tensile strength, and the interaction of AM and OE directly affected elongation before rupture. The formulation of experiment 5 (P5) proved to be the best, as it allowed for the maintenance and improvement of all the properties mentioned above. It was then subjected to industrial testing to verify whether the same property results were maintained. Consequently, it was found that the highest variations in properties were 12.81%. This formulation led to a reduction in the amount of AM and SI and an increase in the amount of OE, potentially resulting in a reduction in production costs

The production of biopolymers represents a promising solution to the increasing pollution caused by petroleum-derived plastics. Among these, polymeric compounds obtained from starch are of great interest, due to their easy elaboration, adaptability to existing manufacturing processes and low raw material cost; however, compared to traditional plastics, their properties are not very favorable for their use at industrial level. In the present work, a biodegradable starch film was obtained using the wet molding method, from an uncommon and locally abundant raw material, such as pumpkin, together with glycerol (plasticizer) and cellulose fibers (reinforcement) obtained from sugarcane bagasse. In addition, the influence of the components was evaluated by means of a factorial analysis 2 . This film was characterized by measuring its mechanical and thermal properties, water absorption, vapor permeability, functional group analysis and degradability. The results showed that 3% starch by weight, 50% glycerol and 8% cellulose in relation to the weight of starch, the latter being the factor with the greatest influence as the best formulation. The film presented a low degradation rate, but exhibited favorable properties for this type of composites, such as a tensile strength of 24.29 MPa, elongation of 6.38%, water absorption of 44.81% and a permeability of 0.46x10 3 g/m∙s∙Pa. These values, however, will need to be further improved to compete with traditional plastics.

The physicochemical characteristics, aluminum content, free residual chlorine, and caffeine content of drinking water from three water treatment plants in the city of Cuenca were studied during May and July 2023, which correspond severally to rainy and summery seasons. The potable water treatment plants studied were: Tixán, which is supplied by the Machángara River; Cebollar, supplied by the Tomebamba river; and Sustag, whose source of supply is the Yanuncay River. Seven sampling points were set down per water treatment plant, two inside the plant (intake and outlet), and five random points, that were taken from official distribution Etapa EP’s diagram. A total of 210 samples were collected. They were examined to free residual chlorine, aluminum, pH, color, turbidity, and conductivity. In addition, the samples were solid-phase extracted and analyzed by HPLC-UV for caffeine content. The results indicated that residual free chlorine, aluminum content, pH, color, and turbidity did not exceed the maximum permissible limits established by the corresponding standards, TULSMA and NTE INEN-1108. None of the samples indicated caffeine presence. In general, there were no significant differences between seasons or potable water treatment plants. In conclusion, it was proved that studied potable water achieves to requirements set on local standards.

The ceramic sector is one of the most relevant industries within the country's economy. Its constant growth leads companies producing flat ceramic to optimize their processes and become increasingly more efficient. Then, in the wet grinding and atomizing stages, one of the important variables to control is the deflocculant, which improves the rheology of the ceramic suspension using the least amount of water possible therefore less water to eliminate during atomization, reflected in lower energy consumption. In this degree work, the optimal dosage of the mixture of deflocculants with sodium silicate and sodium polyacrylate from different suppliers was determined, complying with the physicochemical requirements for barbotine established by the company. For the porcelain technology, the two optimal mixtures of deflocculants were: 1) 75% sodium silicate and 25% Spanish polymer and 2) 95% sodium silicate and 5% Mexican polymer, managing to increase the production of atomized powder by 1.55% and 2.54%, respectively, and a total annual economic savings of 4.52% and 17.68%, in each case. On the other hand, in stoneware technology, the optimal mixtures were: 1) 75% sodium silicate and 25% Spanish polymer and 2) 90% sodium silicate and 10% Mexican polymer, increasing the production of atomized powder by 3.05 % and 1.74% with each mixture, linked to a total annual economic savings of 7.29% and 18.45%, respectively.

Cocoa is a highly valued fruit by society, due to its versatility for the manufacture of various products from it. Ecuador is one of the main producers of cocoa, being the leader in exporting cocoa in Latin America, and is positioned in sixth place worldwide, however, there is waste of this product, among which stands out the cocoa mucilage, for this reason, wine was made from it, using three types of yeast from the Saccharomyces cerevisiae family (SafLager W- 34/70, SafAle BE-256 and SafAle K-97). A batch reactor with continuous agitation and temperature control was designed and built. On the other hand, for the elaboration of the wine, the must was obtained from the cocoa mucilage CCN-51 using a fluidizer; during the fermentation process, the conditions of temperature, pH, °Brix and agitation speed were controlled with the batch reactor. To determine the quality of the wine produced, INEN standard 374 was considered, since it details the permissible values of different parameters so that the beverage is suitable for humans. Finally, to determine the acceptability of the organoleptic properties, a tasting test was carried out, resulting in the SafAle BE-256 yeast as the yeast responsible for providing a pleasant flavor; however, the yeast that gave a higher alcoholic content was SafLager W-34/70.

Water pollution caused by hexavalent chromium, originating from effluents generated by chemical industries like tanneries, is a significant concern in our country. On the other hand, Ecuador stands out as one of the leading shrimp-exporting countries, producing large quantities of shrimp shells. It is estimated that this waste amounts to 11 million tons annually, generating an environmental problem. Both issues can be addressed simultaneously by utilizing shrimp shells to create an adsorbent that enables the removal of Cr (VI) from aqueous solutions. In this study, shrimp shells were employed to prepare three types of adsorbents: biochar at pyrolysis temperatures of 350, 500, and 600 °C, designated as BC350, BC500, and BC600 respectively. They underwent characterization through sieving analysis, BET, and infrared spectroscopy. For comparison in the adsorption process, Lolab activated carbon (CA), palm shell activated carbon (CAP), and untreated shrimp shells (CC) were used. The adsorption process was examined in both batch and fixed-bed column experiments. A chromium removal of 100% (within 100 minutes) was achieved when using BC600 during the batch adsorption tests. The BC600-Cr adsorption process correlated (correlation coefficient of 0.97) with pseudo first-order and pseudo second-order kinetic models, indicating that a complex adsorption process took place. As for equilibrium, the Langmuir model demonstrated a better fit, suggesting monolayer adsorption. Finally, it was found that fixed-bed tests (bed height of 20 cm) using BC600 biochar as adsorbents adjusted to the Wang model with a correlation coefficient of 0.95

This study seeks to compare two natural fining agents such as: Cassia didimobotrya and Moringa Oleifera, versus unflavored gelatin, perform the Physical-Chemical and Microbiological tests, evaluating the capacity as a fining agent, changes in its constitution and finally a sensory test of an untrained panel. . The shaking method was used to integrate the clarifier with the solution to be clarified, controlling time and revolutions per minute (rpm). For the concentrations, a Box Behnken experimental method was proposed with 3 factors and 2 levels, giving a total of 15 treatments. The response variables Turbidity falls within the acceptable range for craft beer, with values of 65.5 NTU (Nephelometric Turbidity Unit) for cassia and 52.9 NTU for moringa, with recommended concentrations of 1g/L of cassia and 0.5g/L of moringa the latter without 1% sodium chloride treatment. On the other hand, the color also falls into the range of craft beer with 11.13 EBC (European Brewery Convention) for cassia and 10.7 EBC for moringa, colors that are found in the reference table and are within similar beers, such as ; American Pale Ale or India Pale Ale. The results of the sensory analysis where they were analyzed; appearance, taste, smell and bitterness, with a response range of; 1-5, with 1 being the lowest rating and 5 being the highest rating, finally, the three fining agents have good acceptance in appearance and smell, with ratings 3 and 4, while moringa stands out in flavor with rating 3, cassia has quite a bit of bitterness. , with rating 4