Ingeniería Química-Pregrado

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Obtención de una película plástica biodegradable a partir de la gelatinización de almidón de zapallo reforzada con fibras de celulosa
(Universidad de Cuenca, 2023-10-30) Valdez Llivisaca, Cesar Ismael; Vanegas Peña, María Eulalia
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.
Diseño de un plan de seguridad mediante la identificación y la valoración de riesgos ocupacionales dentro de una empresa de metalmecánica en la ciudad de Cuenca.
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, 2026-02-26) Dumaguala Cáceres, Edisson Eduardo; Espinoza Hernández, Paulina Rebeca
This document addresses the development and implementation of an industrial safety plan aimed at improving working conditions and reducing risks at Cajas Servicios Industriales. The investigation begins with a thorough analysis of the current safety situation, identifying potential hazards, existing risks, and areas of opportunity through techniques such as audits, inspections, and analysis of previous incidents. Applicable national and international regulations, as well as best practices in industrial safety, will also be reviewed to ensure that the proposed plan is comprehensive and effective. The plan development process included defining clear objectives, evaluating available resources, and actively involving employees and safety managers. Specific procedures were designed for accident prevention, emergency management, and the proper use of personal protective equipment. In addition, training and awareness programs were prepared, emphasizing a safety culture and shared responsibility. For implementation, a continuous monitoring system was proposed to evaluate the effectiveness of the measures adopted and make timely adjustments. The methodology employed combines qualitative and quantitative analysis techniques, ensuring a comprehensive and participatory approach. Finally, the thesis concludes by highlighting the importance of a preventative culture and ongoing training as key elements for maintaining a safe and healthy work environment, and offers recommendations for updating and continuously improving the industrial safety plan.
Caracterización topográfica del cemento Portland dopado con nanosílice mediante microscopía de fuerza atómica, microscopía óptica y análisis mecánico
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, 2026-02-20) Calle Reinoso, Carlos Leonardo; Cruzat Contreras, Christian Américo
This research investigates the effect of nanosilica addition in proportions of 0 %, 2 %, 3 %, and 4 % on nanometric topographical characteristics and mechanical properties of Portland cement mortars. The methodology employed relied on topographical characterization techniques such as Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) and optical microscopy, including compressive strength tests and electrical conductivity assays over 28 days of curing. The results demonstrated that nanosilica provides significant improvements to the mechanical performance of mortars, achieving a maximum increase of 29.9 % in compressive strength with 4 % nanosilica additions at 28 days. From a topographical perspective, it was evidenced that arithmetic roughness and root mean square roughness do not present acceptable statistical significance; therefore, skewness is consolidated as the most reliable parameter. Skewness results show a transition from surfaces characterized by the presence of valleys and pores (Sk < 0) towards a more homogeneous topography dominated by the presence of compact structures (Sk > 0), indicating the possible presence of C-S-H gel, the primary factor responsible for strength. Additionally, mortars doped with 4 % NS exhibited a considerable decrease in conductivity compared to the control, corroborating micropore refinement as a consequence of the pozzolanic effect. It is concluded that the addition of nanosilica in mortars has a direct relationship with the increase in topographical skewness, strength gain, and reduction of conductivity.
Síntesis de nanocompuestos de quitosano incorporando nanopartículas de cobre y extracto de canela mediante gelificación iónica y secado por aspersión
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, 2026-02-11) Balladares Pugo, Samantha Estefania; Guachichullca Guambaña, Astrid Carolina; Vanegas Peña, María Eulalia
Fungal diseases caused by pathogens such as Fusarium spp. represent a significant threat to Ecuadorian agriculture, generating economic losses in important crops, where conventional management through fungicides has caused microbial resistance, environmental contamination, and adverse effects on beneficial soil organisms, evidencing the need for sustainable alternatives with antimicrobial efficacy and low environmental impact. This study developed and evaluated chitosan nanocomposites incorporating copper nanoparticles (CuNPs) and cinnamaldehyde through ionic gelation and spray drying, where Cu-NPs were synthesized by solvothermal method with ethylene glycol, obtaining particles of 25-80 nm with 36.4 % copper (XRF); on the other hand, cinnamaldehyde was incorporated as a natural extract from Amazonian cinnamon, preparing the composites in three combinations: chitosan/Cu-NPs, chitosan/cinnamaldehyde, and chitosan/cinnamaldehyde/Cu-NPs using both techniques. Characterization by atomic force microscopy (AFM) revealed microspheres for ionic gelation and porous structures for spray drying, while XRF analysis confirmed effective copper incorporation (3.66-5.61 % gelation; 5930-7710 ppm spray drying); release assays in acidic medium revealed differentiated profiles: ionic gelation (50 % w/w Cu-NPs) with sustained release and spray drying (10 % w/w Cu-NPs) with rapid initial release. Mathematical modeling using Higuchi and Korsmeyer-Peppas identified quasi-Fickian diffusion for ionic gelation (n=0.19-0.30) and anomalous transport for Cu-NPs in spray-dried triple composite (n=0.51), evidencing simultaneous contribution of diffusion and erosion, with coefficients R²>0.90 and CV<10 % validating the reproducibility and applicability of these composites as dual-release biofungicides for sustainable control of agricultural pathogens.
Evaluación del desempeño electroquímico del prototipo de una celda de flujo redox con electrolitos de hierro a escala de laboratorio
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, 2026-02-20) Gualpa Suco, Gabriel Alexander; Montero Izquierdo, Iván Andrés
Redox flow batteries (RFBs) based on iron electrolytes represent a promising alternative for large-scale energy storage due to their low cost, material abundance, and enhanced environmental sustainability. However, their efficiency is limited by transport phenomena and electrolyte physicochemical stability. This work evaluated the performance of an RFB employing iron–gluconate and potassium ferrocyanide redox pairs in alkaline medium (KOH 1.0 mol·L⁻¹) to identify energy loss mechanisms and operational degradation. The methodology involved electrolyte synthesis at 0.32 mol·L⁻¹ and assembly of a prototype with Nafion NR212 membrane, graphite felt electrodes, and acrylic plates. Physicochemical characterizations were performed using UV–Vis spectrophotometry and atomic absorption, along with galvanostatic charge (0.1 A) and resistive discharge (10 Ω) tests over 20 cycles, operating between 10% and 90% state of charge. Results revealed a 31% capacity loss, decreasing from 0.539 to 0.372 Ah·L⁻¹. Voltage efficiency remained stable (~81%), while coulombic efficiency dropped from 64.6% to 52.5%. This behavior was attributed to species crossover through the membrane and resulting stoichiometric imbalance, evidenced by massive water transport (catholyte: 0.32 to 2.55 mol·L⁻¹) and severe anolyte conductivity decrease (71.8%). Stable pH at 13 confirmed absence of irreversible chemical degradation. Technical viability requires optimized membranes and higher operating current density.
Cuantificación de zinc metálico en residuos de galvanizado mediante absorción atómica y aplicación de un proceso hidrometalúrgico para su recuperación.
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, 2026-02-20) Dután Parra, Tamara Elizabeth; Espinoza Sornoza, Karen Daniela; Astudillo Ochoa, Sonia Margoth
The recovery of zinc from galvanizing slag is emerging as a viable alternative for recovering secondary raw materials. Currently, at the national level, galvanizing companies do not have recovery processes in place, which generates significant economic losses and waste with high metal content that is not utilized. This study aims to apply a hydrometallurgical method to recover the zinc present in the slag from a hot-dip galvanizing company. Initially, the top and bottom dross were quantified using atomic absorption spectroscopy. Acid leaching was performed at concentrations of 15% and 35%, and the solution was subsequently oxidized with hydrogen peroxide. For metal recovery, electrodeposition was performed at a current density of 0.0105 A/cm2, and aliquots were taken during this process for subsequent quantification. The top dross registered 42.30% zinc compared to 37.75% in the bottom dross, opting for the top dross for the recovery process due to its higher metallic zinc content. The leaching reached final pH values of 5 and 2, respectively, for each acid concentration. Electrodeposition yields of 88.46% and 85.23% were obtained, respectively, resulting in a total zinc recovery of 76% and 63%. The proposed hydrometallurgical method confirms its viability for the recovery of metallic zinc from this waste, maximizing its value. This contributes substantially to the circular economy and aligns with sustainable development goals.
Propuesta de mejora del subproceso de retrabajo y recuperación de llantas verdes y carcasas mediante la integración de AMEF y PHVA
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, 2026-02-20) Avila Segovia, Michelle Carolina; Jadán Peralta, Alexandra Patricia; León Jaramillo, Isabel Cristina
Process management plays a fundamental role in the tire manufacturing industry due to its direct influence on operational efficiency, product quality, and compliance with regulatory requirements. The present study aimed to diagnose and analyze the operational risks of the green tire and casing recovery and repair subprocess, leveraging the synergy between Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA) and the PDCA (Plan–Do–Check–Act) cycle for risk management, stemming from an external audit finding related to traceability and document control of the subprocess. The research was conducted using a non-experimental, cross-sectional design and included a partial, document-level implementation, with a comparative reassessment of risks based on an estimated RPN. Initially, a diagnosis of the subprocess was conducted, identifying 266 operational risks and calculating the Risk Priority Number (RPN). Subsequently, prioritization was carried out based on established organizational criteria, and improvement actions were proposed to reduce the likelihood of occurrence and strengthen detection controls, projecting an estimated RPN as a comparative reference. The results indicated that approximately 86% of the prioritized risks could be placed at NPR values below 100, as an expected effect of potential improvements in Occurrence and Detection. It was concluded that the integration of FMEA-PDCA constituted a useful methodological strategy for structuring operational risk management and strengthening document control and traceability, without validating operational performance through indicators.
Valorización de la Cáscara de Cacao: Extracción de Aceite Esencial y Evaluación de su Biomasa como Adsorbente de Omeprazol
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, 2026-02-19) Pacheco Chérrez, Andrés Sebastián; Rivera Cárdenas, Brian Moisés; Peñafiel Tenorio, María Eulalia
The generation of agro-industrial waste and the presence of emerging pollutants in bodies of water represent relevant environmental problems. Among these contaminants, omeprazole, a widely used drug whose elimination by conventional treatments is limited, stands out. In this context, the objective of the work was to valorize the cocoa husk by extracting its oil and to evaluate the residual biomass as an adsorbent to remove omeprazole in aqueous solutions. The methodology included Soxhlet extraction with n-hexane and water, and the characterization of the residue using FTIR, BET and SEM. Adsorption was evaluated in discontinuous systems under different operating conditions, applying kinetic and isothermal models, and later in continuous systems in fixed-bed columns, adjusting the data to rupture models. The results showed 23.24% lipophilic compounds with n-hexane and an increase in surface area from 1.72 to 2.45 m2/g after treatment. In the batch system, the optimal mass was 0.7 g and the contact time was 90 min, achieving 90.8 % removal for 20 mg/L and a capacity of 1.2975 mg/g. Kinetics were adjusted to the pseudo-second-order model and equilibrium to the Langmuir model (R2 = 0.993). In continuous, the best condition was 2.8 cm in height, 2 g of adsorbent and 2 mL/min, with a good fit to the Thomas and Yoon-Nelson models. It is concluded that the treated cocoa husk is a sustainable adsorbent with high potential to remove omeprazole.
Modelamiento cinético de la extracción sólido-líquido de capsaicina, cinamaldehído y timol en ají habanero, canela y tomillo
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, 2026-02-18) Arias Cárdenas, Galo Santiago; Terán Cordero, Iván Alexander; Vera Cabezas, Luisa Mayra
The solid-liquid extraction of bioactive compounds of plant origin is a process of great relevance in industries such as food, pharmaceuticals and agriculture. However, their use is limited by the poor understanding of the processes that influence extraction kinetics. In the present research, the behavior of the extraction of capsaicin, thymol and cinnamaldehyde from habanero pepper, thyme and cinnamon leaves respectively, was studied by controlled thermal agitation at 20, 40 and 60 °C. The quantification of the compounds was carried out through UV-Visible spectroscopy, while the structure of the matrices was characterized by stereomicroscopy and atomic force microscopy, relating porosity and roughness with extraction efficiency. The experimental data were fitted to the first-order, pseudo-second- order, Peleg and intraparticle diffusion models, and the effect of temperature was evaluated using the Arrhenius equation. The results showed that capsaicin and thymol have higher extraction rates due to the higher porosity of their matrices, while cinnamaldehyde presented a slower release associated with the compact structure of cinnamon leaves. The fit of the kinetic models showed that capsaicin is best described by diffusion at low and medium temperatures and by pseudo-second order and Peleg at high temperatures, thymol is mainly fitted to the pseudo-second order and Peleg models, while cinnamaldehyde is best described by the intraparticle diffusion model. These results allow us to understand the mechanisms of metabolite release and provide criteria for the optimization of extractive processes.
Análisis de la Calidad del Agua Potable y Tratada en las Comunidades del Centro Parroquial y Pastopamba Pertenecientes a la Parroquia San Cristóbal
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, 2026-02-20) Lucero Llivizaca, Edgar Adrián; Tello Guamán, Lina Patricia; Astudillo Ochoa, Gonzalo Javier
Drinking and treated water quality is a critical factor for the communities of the parish center and Pastopamba, belonging to San Cristóbal parish. This study aimed to evaluate water quality through the analysis of physicochemical parameters, including pH, turbidity, conductivity, hardness, total dissolved solids, alkalinity, and free residual chlorine, as well as microbiological parameters such as total and fecal coliforms. Sampling was conducted over a four-week period, with collection campaigns separated by fifteen-day intervals, in order to obtain representative information on the condition of the water supplied to the population. The data obtained were analyzed using descriptive statistical methods, including the calculation of the mean and standard deviation, and were subsequently compared with the limits established in the Ecuadorian standard INEN 1108 for drinking water quality. The results indicated that total dissolved solids remained within the maximum permissible limit of 1000 mg/L, while total hardness values were below 300 mg/L expressed as CaCO3. Likewise, alkalinity showed stable values consistent with potability criteria. However, pH values exceeded the permissible range of 6.5 to 8.0, and turbidity occasionally surpassed the maximum allowable value of 5 NTU. In addition, free residual chlorine concentrations were unstable and below the recommended range of 0.3 to 1.5 mg/L, which allowed the presence of total and fecal coliforms above the permitted limit of < 1.1 MPN/100 mL. These findings reveal deficiencies in the disinfection process and highlight the importance of optimizing treatment processes, strengthening operational control, and implementing continuous monitoring to ensure safe water quality for the population.
Detección y caracterización de microplásticos en agua embotellada comercial mediante estereomicroscopía y espectroscopía FTIR con ATR
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, 2026-02-18) Márquez Sarmiento, Jordy Alexander; Pinos Vélez, Verónica Patricia
The present study aimed to characterize the microplastics present in commercial bottled water samples in Ecuador. To this end, samples from four representative brands of the national market were examined, thereby evidencing the presence of microplastics in 100% of the analyzed samples. The overall mean concentration was 14.53 MPs/L, with values ranging from 10.40 to 20.57 MPs/L depending on the brand. Stereomicroscopy was used to identify and classify the particles based on size, shape, and color, revealing a predominance of microfragments (58.49%) and microfibers (21.96%). In addition, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy with attenuated total reflectance (FTIR-ATR) was employed for chemical identification, with polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polystyrene (PS), and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) being the main polymers identified, the latter being the most abundant. The results obtained contribute to reducing the existing knowledge gap regarding microplastic contamination in bottled water in Ecuador and provide valuable input for future risk assessments, the development of quality regulations, and decision-making related to the management of plastic packaging and water resources.
Elaboración y evaluación de un recubrimiento comestible bioactivo a base de hidrocoloides para el recubrimiento de Jamón
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, 2026-02-19) Cajas Velecela, Brian Manuel; Morocho Quishpi, Jimmy Javier; Astudillo Segovia, Servio Rodrigo
The objective of this thesis was to create an edible coating made of hydrocolloids (carrageenan and alginate) and essential oils to improve the preservation of York ham and reduce the need for conventional plastic packaging. The methodology involved optimizing a functional mixture applied by simple immersion to standardized samples, analyzing their characteristics over 15 days of refrigerated storage. The physical results indicated that the treatment was effective as a barrier, showing a limited moisture loss of 42.07% compared to 55.13% in the control group. This moisture retention was essential to prevent the product from exceeding 50% dehydration, thus avoiding the meat becoming irreparably tough. Regarding mechanical properties, the film showed increased firmness upon puncture as residual moisture decreased, while maintaining its structure. Microbiological analysis confirmed the final product's safety, registering a mesophilic aerobic bacterial count of 1.4x104 CFU/g and no pathogens present, strictly complying with standard NTE INEN 1338:2016. Finally, sensory evaluation showed an overall conformity level of 90%, highlighting a preference for flavor and aroma compared to the uncoated sample. It is concluded that the developed coating represents a viable technological option that guarantees the physical, sanitary, and organoleptic stability of the meat product.
Preparación de un jabón a base de biopolímero
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, 2026-02-19) Bonilla Maldonado, Diego Andrés; Peñafiel Tenorio, María Eulalia
In this research, a semi-solid structured soap based on starch biopolymers was developed by incorporating anionic surfactants to obtain a product suitable for domestic use with controlled physicochemical properties, including alkaline pH, soil removal capacity, water absorption, and structural stability. The biopolymer was produced from corn and cassava starch through a controlled gelatinization and chemical modification process, while the detergent active matter consisted of sodium lauryl sulfate and sodium benzene sulfonate. Preliminary experiments were conducted to establish a stable gel-like base formulation, which served as the starting point for applying a simplex-centroid mixture experimental design (1 ± 0.5) to evaluate the effect of component proportions on the response variables. The evaluated properties included soil removal percentage determined by digital RGB analysis, water absorption, pH, and handling resistance. Results showed that the biopolymer–detergent ratio significantly influences soap performance; formulations containing more than 60% biopolymer exhibited greater structural stability, while higher active matter content enhanced cleaning efficiency, achieving soil removal above 90%. Statistical analysis yielded determination coefficients of R2 > 0.85, confirming the reliability of the model and the studied system.
Remoción de colorantes rojo y amarillo de aguas residuales mediante adsorción con paja toquilla, bagazo de caña de azúcar y tusa de maíz
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, 2026-02-11) Ochoa Baculima, Ana Belén; Tigre Sari, Gloria Eliza; Peñafiel Tenorio, María Eulalia
The presence of aniline dyes in effluents from the textile industry constitutes a significant environmental problem due to their toxicity and the risks they pose to human health and aquatic ecosystems. The objective of this work was to evaluate the removal efficiency of red and yellow aniline dyes using toquilla straw, sugarcane bagasse, and corn cobs as adsorbent materials. The research was conducted through batch and continuous system tests. In the batch system, operating parameters such as pH, contact time, and adsorbent dosage were analyzed, in addition to evaluating kinetic and isothermal adsorption models. Subsequently, tests were performed in fixed-bed columns to study the effect of flow rate and bed depth, applying mathematical models to the breakthrough curves. The results show greater removal efficiency for the yellow dye compared to the red, reaching efficiencies greater than 80 %, and a predominant fit to the pseudo-second-order kinetic and Freundlich isothermas. Furthermore, sugarcane bagasse exhibited the highest adsorption capacity and was therefore selected for the column tests. In the continuous system, the yellow dye showed better performance, allowing the treatment of larger effluent volumes and demonstrating greater adsorption capacity, with a good fit to the Yoon-Nelson and Dose-Response models.
Desarrollo de un Modelo Predictivo Mediante Regresión Lineal Múltiple para Establecer la Relación entre las Propiedades Químicas de las Materias Primas del Cemento y las Resistencias a la Compresión del Producto Terminado
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, 2026-02-18) Ortega Machuca, Verónica Nathaly; Cruzat Contreras, Christian Américo
In this degree project, a preliminary predictive model is developed to estimate the early-age compressive strength of general-use cement at 3 and 7 days based on the chemical composition of its raw materials. Following the CRISP-DM methodology, historical quality control data from a cement plant were analyzed through data selection, cleaning, transformation, and modeling. Multiple linear regression and an alternative logarithmic model were applied to identify key relationships between oxide composition and mechanical performance. Results indicate that CaO has the most significant influence on early strength, while SiO2 contributes to progressive strength development through the formation of C2S and C–S–H gel. Conversely, higher contents of Al2O3 and SO3 negatively affect initial strength. Small variations in CaO and SiO2 contents cause notable changes in compressive strength, underscoring the importance of controlling the CaO balance and the C3S/C2S ratio. Although both models exhibit high statistical fit, evidence of overfitting was observed due to the limited data set, suggesting that their use should be considered exploratory. Overall, the results demonstrate that data mining and regression modeling are promising tools for early estimation of cement strength. Expanding the database and enhancing statistical validation are recommended for future research to improve the robustness and generalization of the predictive models.
Evaluación microbiológica de la sección de cárnicos en un mercado de Cuenca-Ecuador: Propuestas de mejora higiénico-sanitarias
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, 2025-11-10) Arias Batallas, Jorge Andrés; Pucha Cabrera, Geovanna Mercedes; Zúñiga García, Daniela Estefanía
Food safety in Ecuador's municipal markets is compromised by poor hygiene practices during the handling of meat products. One of the problems is the presence of microbiological contaminants on inert surfaces such as knives, cutting boards, scales, and saws. The objective of this study was to perform a microbiological analysis of these surfaces in a municipal market in the city of Cuenca, as well as to design and verify a Standard Sanitation Operating Procedure (SSOP) in the intervention area. 100% of cutting boards, 83.3% of scales, 75% of knives, and 50% of cutting saws were contaminated with total coliforms. On the other hand, 100% of cutting boards, 58.3% of scales, 43.8% of knives, and 50% of saws were contaminated with E. coli. In addition, 68% of retailers adopted the suggested hygiene operating procedure. These results show that cleaning and disinfection processes need to be reinforced and that monitoring and ongoing training should be implemented. The results showed high levels of total coliform contamination on all surfaces studied, exceeding regulatory limits. A significant presence of E. coli was detected, indicating failures in cleaning processes. The implementation of the SOP is proposed as an effective and replicable approach to improving food safety in meat sales environments at the market level.
Formulación de galletas de chocolate con harina y grasa de chontacuro (Rhynchophorus palmarum): una estrategia para la valorización de recursos alternativos
(Universidad de Cuenca, 2025-09-17) Peláez Vera, Ricardo Alexander; Aray Rodas, Neil Sebastián; Donoso Moscoso, Silvana Patricia
This research project aimed to formulate cookies using flour and fat from the chontacuro (Rhynchophorus palmarum), evaluating their sensory and bromatological characteristics. Four formulations were prepared with varying proportions of chontacuro flour (0%, 25%, 50%, and 100%), while maintaining a constant amount of insect fat. The cookies underwent sensory evaluation (color, smell, taste, and texture), with the 100% chontacuro flour sample receiving the highest acceptance. This formulation was analyzed and showed a protein content of 14.57%, considerably higher than that of conventional commercial cookies. The results demonstrate that chontacuro is a viable ingredient from nutritional, sensory, and sustainability perspectives. The main challenge for its mass production is the high cost, linked to traditional harvesting methods. However, this could be mitigated through controlled farming. This proposal offers a promising alternative to tackle food insecurity, promote rural economies, and reduce the environmental impact of the conventional food industry.
Encapsulación de polifenoles presentes en el extracto de Desmodium spp. mediante la técnica de gelificación iónica
(Universidad de Cuenca, 2025-09-09) Buñay Chimbaina, Ana Gabriela; Zhimnay Sánchez, Karen Stephanie; Vanegas Peña, María Eulalia
This study evaluated the microencapsulation of phenolic compounds from Desmodium spp. plant extract using ionic gelation, with sodium alginate as the matrix and calcium chloride as the crosslinking agent. A 2² factorial design was applied to analyze the effect of their concentrations on the morphological and functional properties of the microcapsules. Four treatments were formulated; treatment (A2_C3) showed the largest and smallest sizes before and after the drying process, respectively, highlighting the influence of higher biopolymer concentration on the structure and behavior of the microcapsules. Treatments (A2_C3) and (A2_C5) achieved better sphericity and structural stability, with the latter reaching the highest encapsulation efficiency (50.82%). ANOVA analysis revealed that alginate concentration had a statistically significant effect on microcapsule size, while calcium chloride and the interaction between both factors were not significant. Regarding encapsulation efficiency, none of the factors nor their interaction showed statistically significant differences. In the release assays, a greater release of polyphenols was observed in the basic medium (pH 9.2), following a zeroorder kinetic model, characterized by a constant release rate. In contrast, in the acidic medium (pH 2.03), the release was lower and followed the Higuchi model, indicating a Fickian diffusion mechanism without matrix erosion. The results confirm that the system is viable; however, improvements in the formulation are needed to optimize encapsulation efficiency.
Adsorción de diclofenaco e ibuprofeno del agua usando bagazo de caña de azúcar y cáscara de cacao hidrolizado
(Universidad de Cuenca, 2025-09-08) Barzallo Redrovan, Joe Stiven; Guiracocha Orellana, Nathaly Carolina; Peñafiel Herrera, María Eulalia
It was evaluated the adsorption of diclofenac and ibuprofen, two pharmaceuticals considered emerging contaminants, using modified agro-industrial residues as adsorbents: hydrolyzed sugarcane bagasse and cocoa shell. Experiments were carried out in batch reactors and fixed- bed columns to analyze removal efficiency under equilibrium and continuous flow conditions. In the batch system, the effects of adsorbent dosage, pH, initial concentration, and contact time were studied. Experimental data were fitted to kinetic models (pseudo-first order, pseudo- second order, and intraparticle diffusion) and equilibrium models (Langmuir, Freundlich, BET, and Dubinin–Radushkevich). The pseudo-second-order model provided the best fit (R² > 0.90), indicating that both chemical and physical interactions contribute significantly to the process. In fixed-bed columns, the influence of adsorbent mass and flow rate on breakthrough curves was evaluated. The Thomas, Bohart–Adams, Yoon–Nelson, and Dose–Response models were applied, with the latter showing the best correlation (R² > 0.99). For diclofenac, sugarcane bagasse exhibited the highest adsorption capacity (q₀ = 1.31 mg/g), while for ibuprofen the best performance was obtained with cocoa shell (q₀ = 0.86 mg/g), both under specific mass and flow conditions. The findings confirm that these agro-industrial by-products, being low-cost, readily available, and environmentally sustainable, represent a promising alternative for water treatment technologies aimed at the removal of pharmaceutical pollutants.
Obtención de clara de huevo en polvo, mediante secado por aspersión, una propuesta tecnológica para el aprovechamiento de materia prima secundaria en una industria artesanal de elaboración de quesadillas
(Universidad de Cuenca, 2025-09-07) Ochoa Barrera, Pedro José; Andrade Muñoz, Diana Jesús
This study evaluated the technical and operational feasibility of obtaining egg white powder through spray drying using maltodextrin as an encapsulating agent, aiming to promote the sustainable utilization of poultry by-products generated by the artisanal quesadilla industry in Cuenca. Preliminary tests revealed clogging in the atomization system when processing liquid egg white without an encapsulant, which led to the incorporation of maltodextrin at 10% and 15% concentrations. A factorial design was applied to determine optimal processing parameters, resulting in the best conditions being an inlet temperature of 140 °C, feed rate of 12.5 mL/min, and 15% maltodextrin. Under these parameters, the final product showed a moisture content of 7.01%, protein content of 88.57% (wet basis), total carbohydrates of 2.13%, and fat content of 1.69%, complying with the NTE INEN 1973 standard for egg products. Microbiological analysis confirmed the absence of Salmonella spp. and low yeast and mold counts, ensuring product safety. The process yield was 12.29 %, higher than previous studies without encapsulants (6.3%, 7.69%, and 10% at 120 °C, 140 °C, and 160 °C, respectively). These results demonstrate that spray drying with maltodextrin addition is an efficient technological alternative for producing high-quality nutritional and functional egg white powder, fostering sustainable practices and the valorization of by-products in the local food industry.

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