Revista Biodiversidad Amazónica

Effect of Chestnut Shell Coconut-Activated Carbon Addition on the Properties of a Biopolymer for Food Packaging Applications – Madre de Dios Region

Yony Flora Fernández-Herrera — 2024-07-25

This study evaluated biodegradable blends of chestnut shell coconut-activated carbon (CACC) and cassava starch (CS) in ratios of 5/95, 10/90, and 15/85, aiming to develop sustainable materials for packaging. Their physicochemical, morphological, thermal, and mechanical properties were characterized. CACC exhibited a high surface area (400 m²/g) and an average pore size of 3.0 nm, while CS showed notable elasticity and thermal stability (>300 °C). The blends demonstrated improved hydrophilic properties—water solubility (35.20%), water absorption (80.15%), and vapor permeability (60.30%)—with statistically significant differences (p < 0.05). Elasticity reached 450 MPa in the 15/85 ratio. FTIR analysis revealed key chemical interactions between the components. These results confirm the feasibility of utilizing agricultural waste such as CACC in advanced materials, promoting a circular economy in regions like Madre de Dios. The combination of thermal, mechanical, and hydrophilic properties positions these blends as promising alternatives for industrial and environmental applications.

Tree importance value index in the EDMILOT I mining concession located in the Inambari River basin, Madre de Dios

Rosario M. Bernaola-Paucar — 2024-07-25

In the Inambari River basin in Madre de Dios, a comprehensive analysis of the EDMILOT I mining concession was conducted to determine the ecological and economic value of the various tree species present in the area. The introduction highlighted the rich biodiversity of the Peruvian Amazon and the impacts of gold mining. The study aimed to analyze the Importance Value Index (IVI) of the inventoried forest species to guide forest management. The methodology involved sampling species in 100 m² plots, recording the abundance, dominance, and frequency of each. The results indicated that Iriartea deltoidea and Otoba parviflora were the most significant species, with a combined IVI of 103.20%. The discussion pointed out that, despite high diversity, only a few species dominated the forest structure. The research concluded that combining environmental protection with mining activities is essential for ensuring a sustainable future. The data obtained is crucial for planning and managing forests in mining areas.

Evaluation of sorption isotherms of sacha cilantro leaves (Eryngium Foetidum L.)

Cecilia Prisca Ccollqquesaña-Apaza — 2024-07-25

The present study evaluates the sorption isotherms of sacha cilantro (Eryngium foetidum L.), an aromatic Amazonian herb interesting for its bioactive compounds with medicinal properties but which is currently only sold fresh in local markets. To structure the isotherms, the “gravimetric static method” was used at 35, 45 and 55ºC. Saturated salt solutions with a water activity (aw) range between 0.11 and 0.85 were used to determine relative humidities. The “monolayer humidity” (Xm) was obtained by nonlinear regression using the GAB model. The results obtained fit better to the GAB model, obtaining type II isotherms, very common in foods. The “water activity” should range between 0.43 and 0.56; storage of the product at humidity levels lower than 56% is recommended.