Arquitectura-Pregrado

Permanent URI for this collectionhttps://dspace-test.ucuenca.edu.ec/handle/123456789/48

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Diagnóstico Arquitectónico del Estado Actual del Centro Gerontológico Residencial Hogar Cristo Rey, ubicado en el Centro Histórico de la Ciudad de Cuenca
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Arquitectura, 2026-03-29) Espinoza Calle, Jessica Gabriela; Orellana Alvear, Boris Adrían
This research focuses on the comprehensive analysis of the "Hogar Cristo Rey" Residential Gerontological Center through an architectural survey based on historical documentation from 1973 onwards. The study aims to establish the current state of this heritage building through a rigorous methodology that combines architectural recording techniques with historical documentary analysis. The research is structured into three main components. First, a specialized theoretical framework for architectural surveying of heritage buildings is developed, establishing the methodological and technical foundations necessary for recording properties with historical value. This framework provides the conceptual basis for addressing the documentation of buildings that have undergone transformations over time. Second, an architectural survey of the property is executed, complemented by registration forms that document the current conservation state. This process includes metric, photographic, and descriptive recording of all architectural elements, identifying pathologies, deterioration, and modifications present in the structure. Finally, a comparative analysis between the current state and available historical documentation is conducted, enabling the identification of architectural transformations that have occurred since 1973. This comparison facilitated understanding of the building's evolution and provides crucial information for informed decision-making regarding its conservation, restoration, or future intervention, thus contributing to the preservation of local architectural heritage.
Análisis térmico de paneles de tierra comprimidos y su aplicación en las diferentes zonas climáticas de Ecuador
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Arquitectura, 2026-02-23) Arévalo Morocho, Kristel Nicole; Calle Cabrera, Katherine Gabriela; Sánchez Castillo, José Hernán
The objective of this research is to analyze the thermal characteristics of compressed earth panels (BTC) used in social housing, with a construction system that combines BTC and bamboo. The house is designed modularly to expand according to users’ needs. These houses are located in the cities of Cuenca, which has a rainy continental climatic zone; Macas, which has a hot and humid climatic zone; and Machala, which has a very hot and hu-mid climatic zone, using land designated for the construction of affordable housing. To achieve this objective, environmental data and relevant factors from each site are collected and recorded in the Design Builder software. This allows for simulations that enable the analysis of the internal thermal comfort of each area of the house. This approach not only facilitates the selection of the most suitable BTC masonry option but also contributes to maintaining the sustainability of the project. Based on the collected data, formal criteria are established, considering pre-existing characteristics and analysis of the different climatic zones. Initially, the houses show thermal discomfort at certain times of the day. However, the proposed adjustments throughout the research improve thermal conditions for users, achieving an optimal balance between activity schedules in each space and achieving an overall sensation of thermal comfort for most of the analyzed climatic zones. The conclusion is that the BTC-bamboo system is a viable alterna-tive that contributes to the construction of social housing in various climatic zones of Ecuador.
Reutilización adaptativa: Propuesta de lineamientos para la intervención patrimonial de la Capilla antigua de Sinincay
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Arquitectura, 2026-02-20) Herrera Narváez, Camilo Esteban; Ledesma Moncayo, José Eduardo; Guerra Galán, Jaime Augusto
Adaptive reuse extends the life of heritage buildings by enabling compatible contemporary uses while safeguarding their historical, material, and symbolic significance. The general objective of this study was to establish architectural intervention guidelines for the chapel of Sinincay under the adaptive reuse criterion. Accordingly, three specific objectives were pursued: (1) to analyze adaptive reuse principles, (2) to diagnose the current condition of the Sinincay chapel, and (3) to propose architectural intervention guidelines for the building. A qualitative, documentary, and exploratory approach was implemented, combining a literature review of methodological models and reference cases, architectural and photographic surveying, historical review, and heritage/compatibility assessment tools to relate significance, physical condition, and adaptability potential. Findings indicate that underuse—together with constructive pathologies and the lack of an appropriate functional program—intensifies deterioration risks and weakens community attachment. Based on these results, the research structured a set of prioritized criteria and guidelines addressing deterioration control, minimum conditions for use, functional compatibility, reversibility and legibility of interventions, and basic maintenance and management strategies. This work does not present a design proposal; rather, it provides a technical-operational framework to guide future conservation and adaptive reuse decisions for the Sinincay chapel.
Caracterización de la edificación en el Periurbano de la Ciudad de Cuenca. Caso de Estudio: Parroquia Sayausí
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Arquitectura, 2026-02-19) Lucero Matamoros, Luis Hugo; Orozco Sananay, Marlon Fabian; Guerra Galán, Jaime Augusto
This study analyzes the built environment in the peri-urban area of the city of Cuenca, taking the parish of Sayausí as a case study, a territory characterized by accelerated processes of urban expansion and transformation of the built landscape. The research focuses on the identification and characterization of architectural typologies as a tool to understand the dynamics of change that affect ways of inhabiting and building in urban–rural transition contexts. Through a mixed-methods approach, the survey and analysis of 904 buildings were carried out, using architectural characterization forms, georeferencing, and morphological analysis. The results allowed the establishment of a typological classification that reveals the coexistence of diverse building typologies in the peri-urban area of Sayausí. These dynamics reflect a progressive morphological transformation linked to urban pressure, land availability, and the absence of comprehensive planning. The study provides a documentary and analytical basis that contributes to understanding the peri-urban area as an active space of territorial transformation, offering useful criteria for urban planning and land-use management in similar contexts.
Transformación de espacios educativos: Prototipo multisensorial basado en neuroarquitectura para la facultad de Arquitectura y Urbanismo de la Universidad de Cuenca
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Arquitectura, 2026-02-23) Quito Mocha, José Luis; Morquecho Apuango, Carlos Stalin; Auquilla Clavijo, Sebastián Felipe
At universities around the world, academic demands generate high levels of stress and fatigue in university students, which directly impacts their personal lives and specific contexts. Therefore, by designing spaces that foster connection with nature and respond to brain function, it is possible to improve comfort, reduce exhaustion, and increase time efficiency. The project proposes the design of 3 prototypes of multisensory educational spaces based on neuroarchitectural principles, aimed at improving the quality of educational spaces at the Faculty of Architecture and Urban Planning at the University of Cuenca. The proposal seeks to integrate neuroarchitectural principles with the design of inclusive and healthy spaces that promote learning. The methodology includes a review of benchmark cases of immersive and multisensory classrooms, as well as their application in educational settings. Based on these inputs, design guidelines focused on the sensory experience and the comprehensive well-being of students will be established. The final result will be a preliminary architectural design that proposes a new spatial organization for the classroom, based on visual, thermal, acoustic, and natural stimuli, while also considering aspects of inclusion and sensory diversity. This prototype seeks to explain how this application model can transform traditional university environments into settings that respond to the cognitive, emotional, and sensory needs of their users, thus strengthening the link between neuroarchitecture and pedagogy.
Análisis espacial de la cobertura de equipamientos de servicio social y transporte en la ciudad de Cuenca basado en indicadores de sostenibilidad urbana
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Arquitectura, 2026-02-20) Chacho Sanchez, Francisco Javier; Sinchi Parra, Roberto Carlos; Quesada Molina, Juan Felipe
The city of Cuenca exhibits urban growth characterized by peripheral expansion that deepens territorial equity gaps. This research aimed to develop a Spatial Decision Support System (SDSS) to evaluate urban sustainability, focusing on accessibility to public transport and social services (education, culture, and care). The methodology integrated the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) —based on the Urban Dashboard project model— and spatial analysis using Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Multicriteria weighting results prioritize the Social Dimension (60%) over Mobility (40%), identifying transport access (74.5% local weight) as the individual indicator with the highest impact. Hot Spot analysis revealed a radial-centralized urban structure, where excellence is concentrated in the Historic Center, while peripheral areas such as Challuabamba, Rayoloma, and the San Sebastián-El Batán axis show critical deficiencies (Cold Spots). A key finding is the predominance of "functional neutrality" (Level 4) in nearly 70% of the urban fabric, reflecting a planning approach that guarantees basic minimums but lacks high efficiency. The study concludes that Cuenca's inclusive sustainability requires decentralizing nodes of excellence toward the peripheries to eliminate systemic dependence on the city's foundational core.
Caracterización de la edificación en el periurbano de Cuenca, Ecuador Caso de estudio: Parroquia Sinincay
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Arquitectura, 2026-02-19) Parra Guachizaca, Ángel Eduardo; Vasco Bermeo, Jaime Andrés; Guerra Galán, Jaime Augusto
This research aims to characterize the buildings located in the peri-urban area of the Sinincay parish, situated within the urban expansion zone of the city of Cuenca, with the purpose of identifying the predominant architectural typologies in the year 2025. The study addresses the issue of typological transformation resulting from peri-urbanization processes, which are manifested in the gradual replacement of vernacular architecture—originally characteristic of the parish—by contemporary buildings. The methodology adopts a mixed approach that combines qualitative techniques such as direct observation and photographic recording with quantitative methods based on standardized characterization forms. These forms incorporate technological and formal variables of the buildings, such as construction materials, number of floors, state of conservation, among others. The study area is defined in two stages: first, the mountainous zones of the parish are excluded; subsequently, census areas with building density are intersected to ensure the inclusion of inhabited and therefore built-up areas. Fieldwork employs digital tools to ensure precision and efficiency in data collection. The results will make it possible to establish a comprehensive typological classification, identify patterns of architectural transformation, and generate spatial visualizations that document the evolution of architectural typologies. This study represents the first systematic record of buildings in the peri-urban area of Sinincay, contributing to the understanding of change dynamics in rural-urban transition zones and providing a database for future research and territorial planning policies.
Caracterización de la edificación en el Periurbano de la Ciudad de Cuenca (Ecuador). Caso de Estudio: Parroquia Ricaurte
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Arquitectura, 2026-02-20) Borja Castro, Keyla Susana; Dután Guzmán, Camila Yadira; Guerra Galán, Jaime Augusto
This research aims to characterize the buildings in the peri-urban area of the parish of Ricaurte, located on the outskirts of the city of Cuenca, Ecuador. The study focuses on a specific area of the parish, selected due to its territorial and urban characteristics. It seeks to identify the architectural typologies that shape this territory, contributing to an understanding of urban growth dynamics within the context of the transition between rural and urban environments. A mixed methodological approach is adopted, combining qualitative techniques—such as direct observation of the built environment—with quantitative techniques based on the collection of structured data through characterization forms. These include variables such as building typology, construction materials, and state of conservation, among others. Additionally, tools such as photographic records and georeferencing through Geographic Information Systems (GIS) are employed, along with methods such as Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA), which allow for the spatialization and more precise analysis of the data. The results include the classification of buildings according to their typology and the development of thematic cartography that spatially represents the identified typologies. The findings provide a better understanding of the processes and logics of building transformation in the parish of Ricaurte. These results constitute a valuable input for interpreting and guiding the development of Cuenca’s peri-urban areas, as well as for supporting urban planning and land-use management strategies, particularly in rapidly growing peri-urban zones surrounding the city of Cuenca.
Patrimonio rural en contextos urbanos: Revalorización de la Casa Quinta Serrano Lofruscio y su red territorial
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Arquitectura, 2026-02-20) Pérez Cobos, Melanie; Vaca Berrezueta, Anahí Alejandra; Kennedy Troya, María Alexandra
The concept of heritage has evolved notably over time. Today, both international charters and conventions, as well as national reflections, encompass not only grand urban monuments but also elements of everyday life, such as rural architecture. This form of heritage acquires particular importance in Latin America, given the agrarian nature of its history and the strong economic, social, and cultural interdependence between cities and the countryside. As Waisman states, heritage should be understood as a living testimony of the history and identity of rural and surrounding communities, beyond its purely architectural or exhibition value. This research, centered on the case of the Casa-Quinta Serrano Lofruscio, currently integrated into the urban fabric of Cuenca, seeks to recover a type of heritage often excluded from official narratives and to position it as an integral part of peri-urban heritage by considering its relationship with a broader notion of territory. Such heritage must be recognized and preserved not only for its built components but also for the memory of the productive landscape to which it once belonged, both in continuous interdependence until the cessation of its agricultural and storage functions. The study provides insights into understanding this relationship, as well as the presence and role of the communities that have sustained it. In this way, it considers the social, historical, and cultural dynamics that shape and define it.
Estudio Técnico del Diseño y Dosificación de Hormigón Permeable Modificado con Propiedades de Impermeabilización
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Arquitectura, 2026-02-20) González Cárdenas, Wilson Geovanny; Ortiz Zúñiga, Jordi Sebastián; Serrano Tapia, Alex Daniel
The technical mix design of pervious concrete presents a viable construction alternative to address runoff and flooding issues in the city of Cuenca, Ecuador. Considering the increased frequency of intense rainfall associated with climate phenomena such as El Niño, along with the limited capacity of the existing drainage system, the use of this material is proposed as a sustainable mitigation strategy, particularly for low-traffic areas. The general objective is to design a pervious concrete mix suitable for application in low-traffic spaces, while the specific objectives include producing representative samples, measuring their filtration capacity, and evaluating their compressive strength. Additionally, the study aims to combine permeable and impermeable properties within a single sample through the use of chemical admixtures. The methodology includes an experimental laboratory phase, conducted in accordance with the guidelines of ACI 522R-10. Various samples will be prepared with different levels of waterproofing admixtures to characterize their physical and mechanical properties. A total of 45 specimens will be produced—6 for permeability tests and 6 for compressive strength tests—following ASTM standards, which recommend using 10 specimens per sample to evaluate mix performance. The study seeks to identify mix designs that ensure effective rainwater infiltration without compromising the material’s strength, making them suitable for low-traffic applications. It also aims to contribute to local technical knowledge, promote the use of sustainable materials, and propose construction solutions tailored to Cuenca’s climate.
Análisis del potencial solar fotovoltaico en techumbres de la parroquia San Sebastián de Yuluc
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Arquitectura, 2026-02-19) Tigre Bueno, Bryam Paúl; Zalamea León, Esteban Felipe
The present research aims to determine the energy potential in buildings in the San Sebastián de Yuluc parish, Loja, in order to implement rooftop photovoltaic systems that improve energy efficiency and reduce CO2 emissions. This research is also part of a collaborative project with the company ElecAustro. The methodology began by determining the parish's electricity demand using information provided by the company Centro Sur, which yielded an annual consumption of 293,495 kWh, corresponding to the average consumption for 2023 and 2024. Subsequently, aerial photogrammetry surveys of the rooftops were conducted to obtain orthophotos of the area. This identified 400 roofs, which were classified as suitable or unsuitable. An additional 126 roofs were identified as being outside the scope of the orthophotos, for which a statistical projection was made, resulting in a total of; 526 roofs at the parish level, 370 classified as suitable and 156 as unsuitable. On the roofs designated as suitable, 16,434 photovoltaic panels were distributed, covering an area of 42,399.72 m2 and representing a theoretical photovoltaic potential of 11,707,089 kWh/year, exceeding the parish's actual demand by up to 40 times.
Percepciones sobre el Patrimonio Arquitectónico en el casco histórico de la ciudad de Machala
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Arquitectura, 2026-02-19) Ruiz Guachamín, José Agustín; García Vélez, Gabriela Elizabeth
This study arises from an interest in understanding citizens’ perceptions of the architectural heritage of the historic center of Machala, a city facing the gradual deterioration of its built heritage. This issue is reflected in limited social appropriation and unregulated urban transformations that threaten local cultural identity. In this context, it is essential to analyze how citizens value and relate to their architectural legacy. The research examines public perception, considering both academic and non-academic actors, regarding the importance of architectural heritage. Based on this analysis, institutional, educational, and social factors influencing current perceptions of heritage in the historic center are identified. Furthermore, the study proposes guidelines grounded in the diagnostic findings, aimed at promoting the revaluation and social appropriation of architectural heritage, strengthening cultural identity and encouraging citizen participation. Methodologically, the study adopts a mixed-methods approach with a descriptive and exploratory design. Data collection includes structured surveys administered to a purposive sample of citizens, semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders, document review, and direct observation. Data analysis combines descriptive statistics for quantitative information and content analysis for qualitative data through a triangulation process. The findings reveal a low level of knowledge and appreciation of architectural heritage, as well as weak coordination among institutional management, heritage education, and social participation. These results help explain the main causes of heritage devaluation in Machala and provide a basis for proposing guidelines focused on its protection, revaluation, and participatory management.
Análisis de la integración urbana del proyecto de vivienda social Jardines del Valle en Cuenca, Ecuador
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Arquitectura, 2026-02-19) Lazo Jara, Michelle Estefanía; Quizhpe González, Joel Stalin; González Llanos, Mónica Janeth
The objective of this research is to analyze the level of urban integration of the Jardines del Valle social housing project in relation to the existing urban structure and the needs of its residents, based on the premise that housing functionality depends not only on its physical conditions but also on its proper articulation with the services, facilities, and opportunities offered by the city. In this sense, evaluating the degree of urban integration is essential to guide planning strategies aimed at optimizing future social housing projects, considering that such interventions often present weaknesses in their linkage with the urban environment. The study was conducted under a mixed, descriptive, and explanatory approach, applied to 20 housing units through surveys as the main data collection instrument, complemented by interviews and direct observation, which allowed for the integration of objective data related to infrastructure and the surrounding context, as well as subjective information based on residents’ perceptions and experiences. The results reveal a heterogeneous relationship between the housing complex and the city, characterized by differences in access to services, infrastructure, and mobility dynamics; consequently, it is concluded that the project exhibits partial urban integration, conditioned by dependence on the city, perceptions of distance, and limitations in effective access to facilities, factors that influence the appropriation of the environment.
Análisis de confort térmico de la vivienda de Interés Social del MIDUVI al adaptarse a sistemas constructivos de bajo impacto en Fardos de Paja y Bahareque, en clima ecuatorial andino
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Arquitectura, 2026-02-18) Romero Durán, Jorge Anderson; Saavedra Guarderas, Steveen Aldair; Zalamea León, Esteban Felipe
The proposal consists of analyzing a MIDUVI social housing project, adapted to cold climate conditions by integrating vernacular construction systems such as bahareque and straw bales, low-impact materials with contained energy. The project addresses the thermal deficiencies of current typologies, which, being located above 3000 meters above sea level, suffer from high levels of heat loss and thermal comfort deficits. As a design strategy, passive architecture principles are applied, such as the strategic use of construction systems according to solar orientation, improved thermal insulation in the roof using plant fibers with vernacular techniques, and adaptation of carpentry to reduce infiltration. To evaluate thermal and energy performance, EcoDesigner software is used to simulate four scenarios: a base MIDUVI dwelling, a dwelling with a mixed system, and dwellings with each of the vernacular systems. The analysis considers the percentage of annual hours within the thermal comfort range (18°C–26°C) established by the NEC, and the internal stabilization capacity in relation to the high-altitude climate. The proposal is expected to significantly improve thermal performance through low environmental impact strategies, highlighting the effectiveness of the proposed walls compared to other construction solutions that involve low environmental impact. Likewise, its technical, regulatory, and construction feasibility for Climate Zone 5-Cold has been validated. With this approach, the proposal aims to become a replicable and sustainable model for social housing in Ecuador's cold climates.
Anteproyecto de la casa comunal y espacio público para el barrio Reina de la Nube, Machángara, Cuenca.
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Arquitectura, 2026-02-18) Guanuquiza Pugo, Luis Danilo; Durán Aguilar, Edgar Javier
The Reina de la Nube neighborhood, located in the Machángara parish on the urban edge of the city of Cuenca, has historically lacked a public space that promotes community interaction and organization. In the last three years, as a result of a private land subdivision process and in compliance with municipal regulations, a plot of land was allocated for public use within the neighborhood. In response to this context, the objective of this thesis is to develop an architectural preliminary design proposal for a public space and a community center. To support the architectural proposal, a mixed- methods approach was employed, combining the collection of qualitative data through semi-structured interviews and participant observation, with quantitative data derived from site analysis. This process was complemented by a case study analysis, aimed at providing design criteria and supporting the decisions adopted in the development of the new facility. As a result, the preliminary design is conceived as a permeable architectural complex, capable of accommodating diverse cultural and sports activities, optimizing the use of both the community center and the public space, in articulation with the surrounding context and under universal accessibility criteria.
Guía didáctica de arquitectura en tierra para infantes de 6 a 12 años, basada en la experiencia en la Unidad Educativa Bell Academy, Cuenca
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Arquitectura, 2026-02-18) Córdova Puma, Luis Guillermo; Jara Arias, María Luisa; García Vélez, Gabriela Elizabeth
Based on over ten years of practical experience implementing the Little Architects workshops by the CPM Research Group at the University of Cuenca, this educational guide proposes a strategy for teaching earth construction and fostering an appreciation of architectural heritage in children aged 6 to 12. The proposal aims to introduce children to traditional building techniques through active, playful, and contextualized learning experiences, strengthening meaningful learning and their connection to the built environment. The research employs a qualitative approach and participatory action research methodology, based on the planning, implementation, and evaluation of practical workshops conducted at the Bell Academy Educational Unit in Cuenca. This process allowed for the observation and analysis of teaching and learning processes related to direct contact with earth as a building material and with the built heritage. The study is based on theoretical frameworks of experiential learning and active pedagogy, as well as on the analysis of similar educational experiences at the national and international levels. Data collection techniques included participant observation, record sheets, checklists, and photographic documentation. As a result, pedagogical, methodological, and graphic criteria were established for the design of a replicable teaching guide aimed at fostering appreciation for earthen heritage from an early age, strengthening cultural identity and a sense of belonging in educational contexts.
Reconfiguración territorial en las márgenes de protección de las quebradas en el periurbano de la Ciudad de Cuenca: Caso de estudio Parroquia Baños. Período 2001-2023
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Arquitectura, 2026-02-18) Coronel Yánez, David Matheo; Maldonado Vera, Francisco Ismael; González Llanos, Mónica Janeth
Peri-urban territories undergo accelerated transformation processes where urban expansion advances over areas that perform strategic environmental functions. Stream protection corridors constitute one of these contested spaces, subject to occupation pressures that compromise their capacity for water regulation, slope stabilization, and ecological connectivity. This study analyzes the territorial reconfiguration of the Huizhil stream corridors, Baños parish, Cuenca canton, during the 2001-2023 period, seeking to understand the dynamics that have transformed this corridor and the current conditions it faces. The methodological approach combines multitemporal analysis using geographic information systems, satellite imagery interpretation, and fieldwork incorporating residents' perceptions. Significant land use transformations were identified: sustained increase in building density, reduction of vegetation cover, fragmentation of the ecological corridor, and progressive occupation of the normative protection margin. The perceptual analysis revealed that factors such as inheritance and land prices explain residential location, while unawareness of restrictions and underestimation of risk characterize the relationship between inhabitants and their environment. The findings support urban intervention guidelines organized into normative, institutional, and social axes, aimed at margin recovery from a perspective that acknowledges existing realities and engages riparian communities as co-responsible actors in corridor management.
Análisis espacial del comportamiento de precios del suelo y su relación con el uso y ocupación del suelo: Caso de estudio: El periurbano de Cuenca, Parroquia Baños
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Arquitectura, 2026-02-18) Carchi Abambari, Andrea Michel; Peralta Landi, Silvia Elizabeth; Salazar Guamán, Ximena Alejandrina
This study analyzes the spatial relationship between land prices, land use, and land occupation in a peri-urban sector of the rural parish of Baños, southwest of the city of Cuenca, Ecuador. The research is framed within the analysis of urban–rural interface territories, characterized by accelerated transformation processes and speculative dynamics. Through a spatial, functional, and morphological analysis approach, patterns of differential land valorization are identified, mainly associated with road accessibility, the location of strategic facilities, and the existing territorial structure. The results reveal a highly heterogeneous land market with a non-monocentric spatial organization and discontinuous urbanization, where current land uses and building characteristics show limited explanatory capacity compared to expectations of future transformation. The study confirms that land prices in the peri-urban context are primarily shaped by location and accessibility rather than by the physical consolidation of the urban fabric.
Desarrollo de planchas de totora unida con medios mecánicos aplicables en la construcción
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Arquitectura, 2026-02-18) Belesaca Chacha, Heidy Giomara; Romero Peña, Alejandra Innaiz; Hidalgo Cordero, Juan Fernando
This research analyzes the potential of totora reed (Schoenoplectus californicus) as a material for non-structural building elements. Totora is a fast-growing aquatic plant fiber traditionally used in construction systems through mechanical joining. Based on this background, prototypes of panels made from totora stems were developed to evaluate their physical-mechanical behavior and their potential application in vertical cladding as a sustainable alternative.Twelve prototypes measuring 600 × 200 × 50 mm were manufactured, assembled with twine, and compacted under two load levels: six panels at 5 kg/cm² and six at 7 kg/cm². The tests included density, compression, and flexural strength, applying criteria adapted from current technical standards. The results showed densities between 0.27 and 0.32 g/cm³ in the sheets compacted at 5 kg/cm², and between 0.36 and 0.39 g/cm³ in those compacted at 7 kg/cm². The sheets with greater compaction exhibited less deformation under compression and greater flexural rigidity.It is concluded that totora reed is a viable material for vertical enclosures and walls supported by auxiliary structures, contributing to sustainable construction and the use of local natural materials.
Análisis del hormigón celular a base de aditivo espumante y su aplicación en edificaciones
(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Arquitectura, 2026-02-05) Sisalima Taday, Rosa Magdalena; Solá Quintuña, Juan Medardo
In the current construction industry, the incorporation of new technologies and alternative materials has become essential to optimize the efficiency of construction systems. The growth of the real estate sector has promoted high-rise buildings as a response to urban densification, which requires the reduction of dead loads on structural elements and the optimization of execution costs. In the local context, confined masonry remains a widely used construction system; however, it presents limitations related to its high self-weight, longer construction times, and high material consumption. In response to this situation, there is a need to evaluate alternative construction systems that improve structural performance, particularly for non-load-bearing elements. In Ecuador, and specifically in the city of Cuenca, lightweight cellular concrete has not been widely disseminated or applied, despite its technical advantages. This research analyzes its application in non-load-bearing walls, highlighting its low density and adaptability to architectural design requirements. These characteristics allow a significant reduction in dead loads, favoring the design of more efficient structures with reduced use of concrete and reinforcing steel. In addition, the system contributes to the rationalization of construction processes, lower transportation costs, and the optimization of labor during installation.

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