Ingeniería Ambiental-Pregrado

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Análisis de la precipitación mediante la evaluación de índices climáticos extremos en el territorio ecuatoriano continental
(Universidad de Cuenca, 2022-05-26) Saritama Chérrez, Hugo Giordano; Valdivieso García, Katy Viviana; Avilés Añazco, Alex Manuel; Contreras Silva, Juan José
Today, climate change is one of the main environmental threats affecting the world. The consequences of constant meteorological variations can become catastrophic, an example the increase in extreme weather events such as droughts and floods, due to the variability of precipitation; hence the importance of studying climate trends. The present study analyzed the extreme climate events of precipitation at the spatio-temporal level in continental Ecuador for the historical period 1980-2015 and future 2016-2070 under the projections RCP4.5 and RCP8.5, based on the evaluation of 11 extreme climate indices proposed by the Expert Group on Climate Change Detection and Indices (ETCCDI). For this purpose, daily precipitation data from 41 stations subject to rigorous quality control intended for a training set to improve the spatio-temporal representation using the RF-MEP methodology that combines ground data and satellite images by means of random forests. On the other hand, for the use of RCP4.5 and RCP8.5 a statistical downscaling was performed using the quantile delta mapping (QMD) method. Consequently, extreme precipitation indices were calculated using the RClimdex package, a trend analysis was performed using the Mann Kendall test and Sen's method was applied to determine their magnitude. The results and analysis of precipitation indices showed the occurrence of historical extreme events related to the El Niño phenomenon, as well as an increase in precipitation trends in future scenarios, especially in RCP8.5. This research provides a general idea of the historical changes in precipitation through the indexes, as well as the possible scenarios of future changes in the short, medium and long term, so that climate hazard analysis studies can be carried out; making it possible for decision-makers and citizens to apply measures for the control, regulation and protection of water resources.
Monitoreo de la calidad del aire ambiente en los accesos a cuatros escuelas del casco urbano del cantón Cuenca referente a intervenciones de urbanismo táctico
(Universidad de Cuenca, 2023-07-19) Abad Merchán, Pamela Nicole; Ramírez Ramírez, Darleny Samanta; Astudillo Alemán, Ana Lucía
This work presents the evaluation of ambient air quality in four educational institutions: "Nicolas Sojos," "Abelardo Tamariz," "Panamá" and "Luis Cordero" in the canton of Cuenca in the context of tactical urbanism interventions. For this purpose, the concentrations of sedimentable particles, sound pressure levels, and concentrations of metals such as Al, Mn, Zn, Fe, Co, and Cr in transplanted bryophytes of the genus Bryum. The monitoring of sedimentable particles was carried out in three stages, exceeding the standard (> 0,50 mg/cm2*30 days) in the Luis Cordero and Abelardo Tamariz schools in stage 1, and the Panama, Luis Cordero, and Abelardo Tamariz schools in stage 2. In stage 3, only the Abelardo Tamariz school exceeded the national standard (> 1,00 mg/cm2*30 days). The sound pressure levels recorded varied between 56 - 86 dB(A) and were higher than national, and local regulations. After the interventions, there were no significant differences with the levels initially recorded. Regarding the concentrations of metals in the mosses, the highest concentration was for Al (1 475,50 mg/kg) and the lowest for Co (0,15 mg/kg). In addition, the Abelardo Tamariz school had the highest concentration of metals, and Zn was most related to road traffic (r = 0,98). The conclusions state that the schools present contamination by settleable material and exceeded sound pressure levels, and the results did not vary significantly by the tactical urban planning interventions.
Evaluación de la eficiencia de filtros de carbón activo a escala de laboratorio para la retención de microplásticos de aguas residuales
(Universidad de Cuenca, 2025-09-18) Muñoz Torres, Romel Gerardo; Quizhpilema Marin, Samantha Katherine; Guanuchi Quito, Alexandra Elizabeth
Microplastic pollution in water bodies poses a growing threat to both environmental and human health. This study evaluated the efficiency of laboratory-scale filters using activated carbon (AC) for the retention of microplastics in wastewater from the Ucubamba Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) in Cuenca, Ecuador. Three filter columns were designed with activated carbon bed heights of 20, 25, and 30 cm, each also composed of stratified layers of gravel and sand. The system operated under controlled conditions, including flow rate, hydraulic retention time, and sampling frequency. Samples obtained after membrane filtration, containing retained microplastics (MPs), were analyzed using rhodamine B staining, UV fluorescence, and optical microscopy, allowing for the quantification of initial concentrations ranging from 2.3 to 5.7 million MPs/L. After treatment, favorable microplastic removal percentages were achieved, with Filter 3 standing out for its 78.98% efficiency. This performance is attributed to optimal operational conditions: the greatest activated carbon bed height (30 cm) and extended contact time (2 hours). Subsequently, when comparing the efficiencies of the three types of activated carbon (vegetal, powdered, and granular) powdered activated carbon (PAC) exhibited the highest removal efficiency, reaching 80.08%. This result is associated with its finer structure, which enhances surface interaction and adsorption kinetics with microplastics.
Caracterización y cuantificación de microplásticos presentes en el río Machángara de la ciudad de Cuenca
(Universidad de Cuenca, 2025-09-04) Guambaña Palaguachi, Néstor Iván; Palma Portilla, Kevin David; Guanuchi Quito, Alexandra Elizabeth
Microplastic pollution poses a growing threat to aquatic ecosystems both nationally and globally. This study focused on the quantification and classification of microplastics in the Machángara River, one of the main water bodies in the city of Cuenca, Ecuador. This river is especially important because its upper section provides water for human consumption, while its lower section is used for agricultural, industrial, and other anthropogenic purposes. Five strategic sampling points were established along the river: 1) Chanlud Dam, 2) Rural Area Start, 3) Industrial Park Start, 4) Industrial Park End, 5) Confluence with the Tomebamba River. The sample collection followed the Ecuadorian Technical Standard NTE INEN 2176:2013, using composite sampling techniques to ensure representativeness. The samples were then processed and analyzed in the laboratory of the Center for Environmental Studies (CEA) using a stereomicroscope to classify microplastics by shape (fragments, fibers, spheres, films, and sponges), size, and concentration. Results showed a high presence of microplastics, with a maximum concentration of 15,754 particles per liter (part/L), and significant variations across sampling points and weeks, with increases in urban and industrial areas. Morphologically, the most common types of microplastics were fragments, sponges, and films, ranging in size from 0.24 µm to 4,410 µm. These findings confirm the presence of microplastics in the Machángara River, indicating potential risks for both environmental and human health. Therefore, it is essential to implement appropriate management strategies and promote awareness about the responsible use and disposal of plastics.
Optimización de la desinfección mediante el uso de malla y viruta de cobre en los procesos de filtración y post-filtración en la planta de potabilización de la Junta de Agua Potable “Bayas”
(Universidad de Cuenca, 2025-09-12) Gutiérrez Cedillo, Sofía; Pérez Sucuzhañay, Rosa Magaly; García Ávila, Fausto Fernando
The quality of drinking water is a critical challenge, especially in rural areas where high levels of pathogenic microorganisms pose a significant risk to public health. The consumption of contaminated water can cause serious diseases, highlighting the urgent need to optimize disinfection processes to ensure access to safe water. The objective of this study was to optimize the disinfection of drinking water through the use of copper mesh and shavings in filtration and post-filtration processes at the “Bayas” Drinking Water Board treatment plant. The aim was to improve the removal of pathogenic microorganisms and ensure water quality. To evaluate the effectiveness of copper, an experimental design was implemented comparing conventional filtration with the copper contact system, both before and after filtration. The most probable number (MPN) technique was used to estimate the quantity of coliforms in the collected samples. In addition, physicochemical analyses were carried out, considering parameters such as pH, turbidity, and nitrates, which are essential for assessing water quality. The results showed that the use of copper mesh and shavings significantly reduced total and fecal coliforms compared to the conventional system. Furthermore, copper contact in post- filtration proved more effective in disinfection, contributing notably to the microbiological safety of the water. In conclusion, copper-based technologies represent a viable alternative to improve drinking water disinfection in rural communities, reducing health risks and promoting healthier and more sustainable environments.
Efecto del sulfato de cobre como germicida en aguas residuales domésticas tratadas en humedales artificiales
(Universidad de Cuenca, 2025-09-05) Granda Loayza, Daniela Mishel; Salazar Armijos, María José; García Ávila, Fausto Fernando
In many rural areas, domestic wastewater treatment remains a pending task due to structural and social constraints. This situation represents a risk to both public health and the environment due to the presence of pathogenic microorganisms in the effluents. In this context, this research evaluated the use of copper sulfate as a germicidal agent in a real-life treatment system that includes a septic tank, a coagulation process, and a subsurface flow constructed wetland. In the laboratory, jar tests were conducted with different copper sulfate concentrations (1–5%) and doses between 150 and 400 mg/L to determine the most effective. The optimal dose (250 mg/L at 3%) was subsequently applied to the full-scale system. The results showed high removal efficiencies for turbidity (90%), BOD (93%), COD (95%), phosphates and nitrates (97%), and fecal coliforms (>95%). However, an increase in ammoniacal nitrogen was detected (up to 34.78%), possibly due to the inhibition of nitrifying bacteria. Furthermore, the effectiveness of copper sulfate was compared with chlorine and aluminum sulfate. Chlorine was the most effective (99.9% coliform removal), followed by copper sulfate (80.4%) and aluminum sulfate (47.6%). Overall, the results support the use of copper sulfate as a viable alternative to improve water quality in rural communities where access to conventional technologies is limited.
Determinación de la biomangificación de oligoelementos tóxicos en leche cruda; por biotransferencia desde agua y pasto en una hacienda modelo de la parroquia Tarqui, Cuenca, Ecuador; y su posible riesgo toxicológico
(Universidad de Cuenca, 2025-08-21) Hurtado Ordoñez, Pedro José; Uguña Encalada, Gabriela Cristina; Uguña Rosas, María Fernanda
Environmental contamination by heavy metals constitutes a relevant threat to food safety and public health. This research evaluated the concentrations of arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), and lead (Pb) in raw bovine milk produced at a model farm in the parish of Tarqui, Cuenca, Ecuador, as well as the biotransference of these metals from water and pasture, and the toxicological risks derived from their consumption. Samples of milk, water, and pasture were collected and analyzed using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), and the biotransference factors (BTF) and risk indices were calculated: Hazard Quotient (HQ), Hazard Index (HI), and Incremental Lifetime Cancer Risk (ILCR). The results showed elevated concentrations of lead (1.54 mg/kg), cadmium (0.058 mg/kg), and arsenic (0.2361 mg/kg) in milk, exceeding the limits established by Ecuadorian and international standards. Although the BTF values were low (below 1), indicating limited biomagnification from environmental sources, the final concentrations in milk reflected significant contamination in water and pasture. Toxicological analysis revealed HQ values greater than 1 in individuals under 55 years of age and HI values above 1 in all age groups, indicating non-carcinogenic risk. Likewise, ILCR values for arsenic (9.53 × 10−3) and cadmium (9.84 × 10−3) exceeded the acceptable range established by the EPA (10−6–10−4), evidencing a considerable carcinogenic risk. In conclusion, these findings reflect a serious food safety and public health issue, underscoring the need for environmental and sanitary control measures in rural milk-producing areas.
Eficiencia de los vermifiltros como tratamiento primario para la remoción de microplásticos en aguas residuales urbanas del cantón Cuenca
(Universidad de Cuenca, 2025-09-01) Albarracin Zeas, Mateo Andres; Sánchez Cabrera, Camila Fabiola; Guanuchi Quito, Alexandra Elizabeth
The main objective of this study is to evaluate the efficiency of a vermifiltration system for the reduction of microplastics (MPs) in urban wastewater, considering the Ucubamba Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) in the Cuenca canton as the study area. For this purpose, a pilot vermifiltration system implementing the Eisenia fetida species was used, and its performance was compared with a biofilter without worms. Physicochemical parameters of the water were characterized before and after vermifiltration treatment, and microplastics were also identified and quantified by oxidative digestion, vacuum filtration, and microscopic observation. Regarding microplastics, particles belonging to polymers such as polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP), polyamide, thermoplastic polyester (#7), and chlorinated polyethylene were detected with Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) equipment. Therefore, it is evident that the vermifilter achieved a significantly higher removal efficiency than the biofilter, reaching percentages greater than 60% in the reduction of microplastics. Furthermore, in the analysis of the physical and chemical parameters, improvements were observed in the Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) parameters, reaching a percentage reduction of up to 72% and in total suspended solids with a reduction of 68%. In the statistical analysis of the physical and chemical parameters, significant differences were evident between the values of the influent and effluent, which supports the effectiveness of the vermifiltration system. Based on the results obtained and the statistical analyses developed, vermifiltration systems are considered to improve the quality of the treated water, thus contributing to minimizing the environmental impacts associated with effluent discharge.
Estrategias para minimizar la producción de residuos peligrosos y maximizar la recuperación de materiales: un análisis del flujo de materiales en Continental Tire Andina S.A.
(Universidad de Cuenca, 2025-09-02) Espinoza Murillo, Andrea Nayeli; Vásquez Ochoa, Kenny Leonardo; Cisneros Ramos, Juan Fernando
The objective of this study is to minimize the production of hazardous waste and maximize the recovery of materials in the tire industry, Continental Tire Andina S.A., through a material flow analysis of the productive and non-productive processes that generate hazardous waste. A qualitative material flow analysis of the entire plant process and a quantitative material flow analysis was carried out over a period of one month, with the areas that produce the greatest amount of hazardous waste, including the productive process of mixing and relating it to the non-productive processes: laboratory, cleaning, maintenance and operation, using the STAN software.The areas and causes of hazardous waste generation in the plant were identified and 8 management strategies grouped into three scenarios were established: operational optimization, technical innovation and control of priority waste. Each of the scenarios was evaluated technically, environmentally and economically, with the best alternative being scenario 3, which includes management improvement strategies, process changes and material substitution, resulting in a reduction of 14 407,61 kg of hazardous waste and generating savings of US$3 760,3 per month in its treatment. This scenario stands out for the positive environmental impact it generates and the balance between technical and economic aspects.
Análisis de las relaciones entre sequía meteorológica e hidrológica presente en las estaciones de Chanlud, Labrado y Saucay en la subcuenca del río Machángara
(Universidad de Cuenca, 2022-07-26) Campoverde Pesántez, Viviana Lucía; Avilés Añazco, Alex Manuel
Climate changes at a global level have been modifying regional climate patterns, which has had as a major consequence over the presence of extreme hydrological events, as it is the case of drought. Droughts have directly affected the provision functions of the ecosystem services provided by the watersheds throughout each region. The present investigation analyzed the relationship between hydrological and meteorological droughts for the meteorological stations of Chanlud, Labrado and Saucay in the sub-basin of the Machángara River, located in the city of Cuenca - Ecuador, between the years 2000-2019. For its development, linear and nonlinear models were considered to relate the standardized precipitation index (SPI) and the standardized flow index (SSI), as well as the use of evaluation metrics for model validation. In addition, through the Run Theory, droughts were characterized and categorized by their duration and magnitude. Through models and six validation criteria, it was possible to identify that there is a direct relationship in both the duration and magnitude of these two types of droughts. However, the structures of the models were different, without this interfering with the efficiency of their results. This is how it was possible to show that the presence of large reservoirs becomes a great help for the management of water resources, minimizing the vulnerability of the population to extreme weather events and also to guarantee a reliable water supply
Implementación y evaluación de un vermifiltro piloto empleado como tratamiento único de aguas residuales domésticas en una vivienda de la parroquia Baños, analizando su aplicación como una estrategia de economía circular
(Universidad de Cuenca, 2023-07-24) Parra Quezada, Juan José; Guanuchi Quito, Alexandra Elizabeth; García Ávila, Fausto Fernando
Conventional sanitation is not an ecologically or economically sound option to manage domestic wastewater, especially in rural areas where lack of access to the service has environmental and public health repercussions. Alternative treatment systems have been raised as sustainable sanitation options, where vermifiltration has been classified as one of the best technologies. The objective of this work was the implementation and evaluation of a pilot vermifilter used as the only treatment of domestic wastewater; The quality of the effluent for its use in irrigation and the implementation of this technology as a circular economy strategy were analyzed. A vermifilter was implemented and 14 physicochemical and microbiological parameters were monitored every 5 days for 60 days. Removal efficiencies between 85.7% and 91.6% were obtained for BOD5; 81.1% and 87.1% for COD, 62.80% nitrites, 76.8% nitrates and 76% ammonia and efficiencies greater than 90% turbidity. The Water Quality Index proposed by Dinius indicated that the effluent from vermifiltration is suitable for irrigation in most crops, while the Global Index of Wastewater for irrigation classified the effluent as unsuitable for agricultural use due to the concentration of pathogens. In this way, vermifiltration is emerging as a good alternative treatment option, in accordance with the guidelines of the circular economy thanks to its conception, efficiency and nongeneration of toxic waste.
Determinación de la inversión térmica (IT) a través de imágenes satelitales y su relación con los perfiles de gases obtenidos del satélite Sentinel-5P
(Universidad de Cuenca, 2021-12-16) Cueva Luzón, Erika del Cisne; Faicán Cabrera, Gina Marcela; Mejía Coronel, Julio Danilo
Air quality has become a significant concern for many cities around the world, this because the effects derived from poor air quality cause several problems in people, animals, ecosystems and material resources; in Ecuador, the population′s accelerated growth brings with it the presence of a high vehicular and industrial density; bringing about presence of many pollutants, among the main ones are Ozone (O3), Sulfur Dioxide (SO2), Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2), Carbon Monoxide (CO) and Formaldehyde (HCHO), added to this, various meteorological factors influence the behavior of air pollution, for example, thermal inversions (TI's); which are defined as a phenomenon of increase in air temperature with altitude, being a critical factor that affects air quality because it occurrence in areas and levels with a constant release of pollutants limiting their dispersion and intensifying their concentration. Ecuador lacks instruments that allow measuring the necessary variables to carry out studies on this topic, so satellite images provide us with reliable and easily accessible information to comply with our study, the main objective of our research is to determine if there is a relationship between the phenomenon of thermal inversion and episodes of atmospheric pollution in Ecuador, during the period from December 2018 to January 2020, for which we used daily profile data of Nitrogen Dioxide, Carbon Monoxide, Sulfur Dioxide, Ozone, Formaldehyde, provided by SENTINEL-5P and temperature and pressure profiles provided by ERA 5, which were validated with the in situ data obtained by INAMHI meteorological stations, the thermal inversion was determined by calculating the temperature gradient where the main characteristics of the IT's such as frequency, depth and strength were analyzed, finally the periods of thermal inversion with pollution episodes were correlated, the data validation results confirmed a strong positive correlation between the in situ data and those provided by ERA5, areas were evidenced where up to 320 days with occurrence of IT's throughout the study period were presented, at the regional level, Oriente region presents the largest number of TI concentrating 42% of them, the general average for the strength at the national level is 0.98 ⁰C, the depth of the surface inversions presented a IQR of 200 m to 700 m and for the high inversions the depth was 1237.497m, regarding the relationship with pollutants, in our research strong TI relationships were found with HCHO ( R2 = 0.763) as well as with SO2 ( R2 = 0.680), moderate relationships between TI and O3 ( R2 = 0.570) , in the same way with CO (R2 = 0.577), a weak relationship between TI and NO2 (R2 = 0.262) was found, also our results show significant variations between regions in the concentration of pollutants, periods and levels in which IT's are produced, finally is necessary to mention that, this study is fundamental to know the behavior of pollutants in the presence of meteorological phenomena and provides a database for scientific discussions about integrative strategies to prevent the exposure of the population to these pollutants and mitigate their accumulation thus guaranteeing the quality of life in Ecuador.
Evaluación de la calidad del agua y el estado biológico de la microcuenca del Río Santa Bárbara
(Universidad de Cuenca, 2025-02-20) Coronel Sánchez, María Karla; Poma Paredes, Stefanny Pamela; Jerves Cobo, Rubén Fernando
The comprehensive water quality assessment and the biological status of a part of the Santa Bárbara River micro-basin identified the main factors affecting the sustainability of this water resource. Physical-chemical parameters such as dissolved oxygen, pH, temperature, nitrates, phosphates, and total dissolved solids were analyzed, along with microbiological parameters such as fecal coliforms. Biological parameters were evaluated using the Andean Biotic Index (ABI) and the Shannon-Wiener Diversity Index. The Water Quality Index (WQI-NSF) results classified water quality as ranging from "good" to "poor", while the ABI indicated a quality ranging from "moderate" to "poor" in areas with higher anthropogenic activity. The Shannon Index revealed a decline in biological diversity at heavily polluted places, confirming the loss of sensitive species in affected areas. Moreover, significant concentrations of heavy metals such as mercury and chromium were detected, exceeding the limits set by national regulations. These findings underscore the urgent requirement to implement comprehensive strategies for the monitoring and sustainable management of water resources in the region.
Evaluación de cambios en la intensidad, duración y frecuencia de eventos extremos de precipitación en la subcuenca del río Yanuncay
(Universidad de Cuenca, 2025-02-13) Guerra Alay, Alejandra; Pulgarín Guerrero, Fátima Soledad; Avilés Añazco, Alex Manuel; Guamán Mendoza, Anthony Esteban; Zhiña Villa, Darío Xavier
This research evaluates and compares Intensity-Duration-Frequency (IDF) curves of precipitation constructed using stationary and non-stationary models based on historical rainfall data from the Yanuncay River sub-basin. IDF curves were developed for return periods of 5, 10, 25, 50 and 100 years considering durations of 1, 2 and 3 hours and later extended to 5 hours to improve visualization and analysis. The non-stationary model considers covariates such as temperature, while the stationary model assumes time invariance. The results suggest that the transient model better fits historical data and captures greater spatial and temporal variability of extreme precipitation intensities, especially over longer time periods. Furthermore, the maps produced identify critical areas within the sub-basin with higher intensities, particularly in the lower areas. This study contributes to the scientific analysis of extreme precipitation variability and provides a methodological comparison between stationary and non-stationary approaches highlighting their different estimates. The research highlights the importance of strengthening meteorological and hydrological monitoring in key areas of the sub-basin and recommends further exploration of complementary methodological approaches to better understand extreme rainfall patterns in similar contexts.
Investigación integrada en laboratorio y campo sobre la utilización de residuos de alumbre, coagulantes inorgánicos y coagulantes naturales en el tratamiento de aguas residuales domésticas en humedales artificiales
(Universidad de Cuenca, 2025-02-20) Espejo Peralta, Cristhian Daniel; Guamán Cabrera, Nayelli Fernanda; García Ávila, Fausto Fernando
Wastewater treatment in rural areas poses a critical challenge due to the lack of adequate infrastructure, management policies, and environmental awareness, significantly impacting public health and water resources. This study evaluated a wastewater treatment system combining a septic tank for primary treatment, a coagulation system for secondary treatment, and a subsurface flow constructed wetland for tertiary treatment. The study also explored the use of alum residues, aluminum sulfate, and aloe vera as coagulants to enhance effluent quality. Jar tests were conducted to determine the optimal coagulant doses, followed by field application. Samples were collected in compliance with the INEN 2176:2013 standard at two key points: the wetland's outlet without coagulation and its outlet with coagulation. Physical-chemical parameters such as turbidity, BOD5, COD, nitrates, phosphates, ammoniacal nitrogen, and suspended solids, as well as microbiological parameters like fecal coliforms, were analyzed. The results revealed high removal efficiencies: turbidity (82%), BOD5 (78%), COD (79%), nitrates (78%), and suspended solids (83%). However, limitations were observed in phosphate and ammoniacal nitrogen removal, attributed to anaerobic conditions. This system offers a sustainable solution for wastewater management in rural communities. However, optimizing the system’s design is necessary to enhance nutrient and fecal coliform removal. Integrating complementary processes such as disinfection could further improve its efficiency, providing a more effective and sustainable approach to managing wastewater in underserved areas.
Desempeño de humedales artificiales estructurados en invernadero para el tratamiento de aguas residuales domésticas en la parroquia Baños
(Universidad de Cuenca, 2025-02-19) Armijos Salinas, Jean Flavio; Castillo Espinosa, Alexis Fernando; García Ávila, Fausto Fernando
This study evaluated the performance of structured horizontal flow constructed wetlands in a greenhouse for the treatment of domestic wastewater in the Baños parish, city of Cuenca. A greenhouse was implemented over an artificial wetland, and the efficiency of contaminant removal was compared between the system with a greenhouse and one without it. Additionally, the effect of anthuriums on contaminant removal under both conditions was analyzed.The results showed that the wetland without a greenhouse achieved a removal of suspended solids of 49.89% and BOD5 of 72.96%, although it presented limitations in the removal of COD and phosphates. In contrast, the wetland with a greenhouse reached high efficiency in the elimination of BOD5 (86.63%), but showed weaknesses in the removal of suspended solids and ammoniacal nitrogen. The use of anthuriums improved the removal of suspended solids (69.98%) and nitrates (89.5%), although low removal of BOD5 and issues with nitrification were evident. Statistical tests indicated that for most parameters, there were no significant differences when comparing the treatment stages. Despite the challenges faced by the anthuriums, the controlled environment of the greenhouse favored their adaptation, ensuring adequate development. Overall, the effluents from the wetland met the permissible limits established by the TULSMA regulations, suggesting that structured greenhouse constructed wetlands can be a viable solution for wastewater treatment in the region.
Determinación del stock de carbono orgánico y distribución espacial en los suelos de los valles de la microcuenca "Cuevas" páramo altoandino de Cancán, Azuay, Ecuador
(Universidad de Cuenca, 2025-02-10) Minchalo Castillo, Javier Mateo; Iñiguez Reyes, Mathias Sebastián; Ramírez Matamoros, Marco Tulio
This study determined the organic carbon storage and spatial distribution in the soils of the "Cuevas" micro-catchment valleys in the southern Ecuadorian páramo. A total of 115 points were analyzed, combining 26 strategic sampling sites with 89 previous research data points. Laboratory analysis and geospatial tools using IDW interpolation estimated apparent density (AD) values, facilitating the calculation of Total Carbon Storage (TCS) in tonnes per hectare (t/ha). Results showed that cushion vegetation in valleys had higher TCS values, with a maximum of 1447.31 t/ha, compared to 429.90 t/ha in grassland soils. In soil horizons, the H horizon in cushion vegetation stored 64.20% more carbon than the A horizon, contributing 72.79% of the total soil carbon. Low AD values (<0.5 g/cm³) favored carbon accumulation by increasing porosity and water retention. The first 30 cm of soil stored the highest carbon content, emphasizing the role of cushion vegetation and páramo conditions—low temperatures and high moisture—in slowing organic matter decomposition. These findings highlight the importance of conserving páramos as carbon sinks for climate change mitigation.
Tratamiento terciario de agua residual post-vermifiltración mediante humedal artificial y análisis del vermicompost del lecho del vermifiltro
(Universidad de Cuenca, 2025-02-12) Marín Macao, Carlos Enrique; Guanuchi Quito, Alexandra Elizabeth
Freshwater, constituting only 2% of the total available, is affected by the inadequate management of wastewater, necessitating the development of effective and sustainable treatments. Non- conventional systems, such as vermifilters and artificial wetlands, stand out for their low cost, reduced demand for specialized labor, and sustainability. This study aims to employ an artificial wetland as a tertiary treatment for wastewater following vermifiltration, focusing on the removal of coliforms and amoebas. Weekly sampling was conducted over six weeks at two points: the outlet of the vermifilter and the outlet of the wetland. Total coliforms, fecal coliforms, and amoebas were analyzed using culture techniques and microscopic observation. Additionally, the quality of the vermicompost was evaluated based on eight parameters, comparing them with the Chilean Standard NCh 2880. The results indicated that the wetland achieved a 100% removal of amoebas but did not eliminate total and fecal coliforms. The vermicompost met seven out of the eight quality parameters analyzed, although the presence of fecal coliforms limits its use in agriculture. Therefore, the use of lime or increased temperature is recommended to improve the quality of the vermicompost. Furthermore, it is suggested to investigate the optimal hydraulic retention time to maximize coliform removal in both systems and ensure more efficient treatments.
Precipitación química como una alternativa en la gestión de la Laguna de Busa: impacto en la flora y fauna acuática
(Universidad de Cuenca, 2025-02-12) García Pizarro, Estefanía Carolina; Malla Aguilar, Evelyn Gabriela; García Ávila, Fausto Fernando
Excess phosphorus promotes eutrophication, altering the natural balance of the aquatic ecosystem. The present investigation evaluated chemical precipitation with aluminum sulfate as an alternative for the management of the Busa lagoon and its impact on the flora (Schoenoplectus californicus) and aquatic fauna (Cyprinus carpio). The applied study with an experimental design used laboratory jar tests to determine the optimum dose of the coagulant. Among the main results, phosphorus concentration was reduced by 92.31% (from 0.13 to 0.01 mg/L) and water turbidity was significantly improved. However, through acid digestion it was found that the reduction of phosphorus concentration in the S. californicus species did not exceed 60%, showing limitations in the effective control of this invasive plant. As for the fauna, the toxicity of the residual aluminum concentration was estimated by means of the lethal effect, which caused a high mortality of 93.33% in C. carpio fry. In conclusion, chemical precipitation with aluminum sulfate was effective in reducing phosphorus levels and improving water quality; however, it did not contribute significantly to the reduction of phosphorus in the aquatic plant to prevent its growth, and had adverse effects on aquatic biodiversity, underscoring the need to implement an integrated approach that considers the ecological impacts before
Evaluación de un tratamiento de biodiscos mixtos para la remediación de aguas contaminadas por actividades mineras
(Universidad de Cuenca, 2025-01-23) Velecela Garay, Cinthya Pamela; Zambrano Jaramillo, Alessandro Fabián; Jara Torres, Pablo Patricio; Larriva, Wilson Giovanni
A mixed rotating biological contactor system was designed and implemented at laboratory scale for the treatment of water contaminated with heavy metals. This system consists of three plastic containers of 0.39 m long, 0.25 cm wide and 0.15 m high; interconnected and arranged in line, along the containers there is a central axis consisting of a steel rod connected to a motor and on this axis and inside each container there are 6 discs of 0.2 m in diameter and 0.04 m between discs. 2 m in diameter and 0.04 m between disks, being 18 disks in total that have been manufactured with PLA biopolymer (lactic polyacid - a biodegradable and recyclable material), each disk has different texture, shape and consortium of microorganisms. The system was evaluated using contaminated water samples from the Santa Barbara River sub-basin. The results showed a notable reduction in turbidity (89.70%), color (93.32%), electrical conductivity (43.81%), dissolved oxygen (5.98%) and BOD (79.99%) and COD (90.54%). In the case of heavy metals, the highest removal percentages were 96.46% for Cr, 87.5% for Zn and 85% for Cu, with an optimum hydraulic retention time of 2 days. In addition, a decrease in fecal coliforms (76.67%) and total coliforms (90.21%) was observed. However, it is important to note that the limitations of the study, such as the assumption of a piston flow and the lack of a control system, make it impossible to assure 100% that the observed removals are.

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