Esta Dissertação discorre sobre a pesquisa de caracterização de palha de milho e a sua utilização como matéria prima para a obtenção de nanocelulose. Segundo o IBGE, este resíduo agrícola foi produzido no Brasil, no ano de 2013, em cerca de seis milhões de toneladas. As amostras deste resíduo lignocelulósico utilizadas neste trabalho foram coletadas na forma cotidiana de descarte mais frequentemente encontrada em supermercados e feiras livres. Procedeu-se, então, ao beneficiamento mecânico, beneficiamento químico (mercerização e branqueamento) e hidrólise ácida dessas amostras, o que produziu os seguintes materiais: palha de milho beneficiada mecanicamente, palha de milho beneficiada quimicamente e nanocelulose. Cada um destes materiais foi caracterizado, conforme o tipo, por menos ou mais dos seguintes ensaios: determinação de densidade, determinação de umidade, determinação do teor de cinzas, resistência à tração, determinação do teor de extraíveis, determinação do teor de holocelulose, determinação do teor de hemicelulose, determinação do teor de alfacelulose, determinação do teor de lignina, análise termogravimétrica (TGA), espectroscopia por infravermelho por transformada de Fourier (FTIR), índice de cristalinidade por difração de raios-x (CrI), medição do tamanho de partícula por espalhamento de luz dinâmico (DLS), morfologia por microscopia eletrônica de varredura (SEM) e determinação do rendimento dos produtos de hidrólise. Nesta pesquisa também se estudou, empregando a técnica de planejamento de experimento fatorial com ponto central, a influência dos fatores razão fibra/ácido e tempo da reação na obtenção da nanocelulose, conseguida com êxito em todos os experimentos executados com a palha de milho que foi branqueada de forma efetiva neste trabalho / The present research focuses on the characterization of corn husks and its use as a raw-material for the cellulose Nanowhiskers production. According to the IBGE (Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics), in 2013 about six million tons of this agricultural waste were produced in Brazil. The samples from this lignocellulosic waste used in this research were collected in the most usual form of discard found in supermarkets and street markets. After that, the mechanical processing, chemical processing (mercerization and bleaching) and acid hydrolysis of these samples were carried out, yielding the following materials: mechanically processed corn husk, chemically processed corn husk and cellulose nanowhiskers. Each one of these materials, according to the type, was characterized by the following standardized tests (some by fewer, others by almost all of the tests): density; moisture; ash; mechanical property; extractible, hemicellulose, cellulose and lignin contents; thermal behavior by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), crystallinity index (CrI) by X-ray diffraction (XRD), distribution of particle size by dynamic light scanning (DLS); morphology by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and determination of the yield of the hydrolysis products. The influence of the factors fiber/acid ratio and reaction time in the production of cellulose nanowhiskers was also studied in this research, using the factorial experiment design. The obtention of cellulose nanowhiskers was successfully achieved in all experiments performed with corn husk that was bleached effectively in this work

Made available in DSpace on 2017-06-01T18:20:46Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 1 nadielly_regina_andrade_silva.pdf: 2241385 bytes, checksum: 7c1eaed7526d7ccf975f793cae93fa8b (MD5) Previous issue date: 2014-03-13 / Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior / The biosurfactants are a class of compounds obtained by microbial way with amphiphilic molecular structure, responsible for the reduction of surface and interfacial tension, with wide application in the food industry, pharmaceutical, cosmetic, in bioremediation and oil recovery. The search for alternatives to the use of waste makes the production of more viable and competitive biosurfactant minimizing production costs and hence the impact on the environment. In this context, studies were performed with fungus isolated from Caatinga soil (Pernambuco, Brazil). The fungus was identified as Cunninghamella echinulata, being evaluated in a row biotechnological potential biosurfactant production. The growth medium was used agro-industrial residues, corn steep liquor (M) and soybean oil waste (ORS) as substrates, employing a complete planning design of 22 with the variable response biosurfactant production which was evaluated by reduction of the surface tension and emulsification index. The results indicated a reduction of water surface tension of 72 to 36mN/m, and emulsification index of 80% for the engine burning oil. Stability tests with cell-free metabolic liquid against different temperatures, pH and NaCl concentrations for surface tension, as well as the emulsification index. The biosurfactant showed ionic charge, polymeric chemical composition constituted by lipids (40%), carbohydrates (35.2%) and proteins (20.3%), and presented property as ability to oil displacement area and increased or decreased the viscosity. The promising results obtained with the fungus C. echinulata in the of biosurfactant/emulsifier production suggest in future perspectives to use in bioremediation processes, reducing the concentration of the components of petroleum, cleaning tanks, the oil spill, as well as in other industrial applications. / Os biossurfactantes constituem uma classe de compostos obtidos por via microbiana com estrutura molecular anfifílica, responsáveis pela redução de tensão superficial e interfacial, com ampla aplicação no setor industrial alimentício, farmacêutico, cosmético, na biorremediação e na recuperação de petróleo. A busca de alternativas para o uso de resíduos torna a produção de biossurfactante mais competitiva e viável, minimizando os custos de produção e consequentemente os impactos no ambiente. Nesse contexto, estudos foram realizados com fungo isolado de solo da caatinga (Pernambuco, Brasil). O fungo foi identificado como Cunninghamella echinulata, sendo em seguido avaliado seu potencial biotecnológico na produção de biossurfactante. Realizou-se crescimento em meio utilizando resíduos agroindustriais de baixo custo, milhocina (M) e óleo residual de soja (ORS) como substratos, empregando um planejamentyo fatorial competo de 22, tendo como variável resposta a produção de biossurfactante, a qual foi avaliada pela redução da tensão superficial e do índice emulsificação. Os resultados indicaram uma redução da tensão da água de 72 para 36mN/m e índice de emulsão de 80% para o óleo queimado de motor. Os testes de estabilidade com o líquido metabólico livre de células frente diferentes temperaturas, concentrações de NaCl e pH tanto para tensão superficial, como para o índice de emulsificação. O biossurfactante apresentou carga iônica, constituição química polimérica com lipídeos (40%), carboidratos (35,2%) e proteínas (20,3%). E ainda apresentou propriedade como agente de dispersão de óleos e no aumento e ou redução da viscosidade. Os resultados promissores com o fungo C. echinulata na produção do biossurfactantes/emulsificante sugerem o seu emprego, no futuro, em processos de biorremediação, na redução da concentração dos componentes do petróleo, na limpeza de tanques, no derramamento de petróleo, como também em outras aplicações industriais.

Made available in DSpace on 2017-06-01T18:20:47Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 1 patricia_nunes_santos.pdf: 1302944 bytes, checksum: 829ad94c8a2ee569d1c5f05f615f2f12 (MD5) Previous issue date: 2016-06-07 / Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico / Surfactants are amphipathic molecules of microbial origin that exhibit activity on different types of surfaces, have high biodegradability, low toxicity, can be produced from renewable sources and have funcionality under extreme conditions of pH and temperature. Oleaginous microorganisms present as main characteristic the ability to accumulate lipids over 20% of its dry weight, represented in the form of triacylglycerol, a constitution comparable to vegetable and animal oils, and their chemical composition similar to biodiesel. Assays were carried out for the simultaneous production of lipids and biosurfactant by Penicillium spinulosum UCP1347 using as substrates corn steep liquor (5%) and post-frying soybean oil (3%), using an Experimental Design - Central Composite Design CCD 22. The fermentation was performed in Erlenmyers flaks containing 100 mL of medium, in according to the CCD, 5% of the suspension inoculum of 107 spores/mL, incubated at temperature of 28°C, orbital shaking of 150 rpm and 96 hours. At the end of fermentation, the cell free broth showed the production of a biosurfactant, which reduced the water surface tension from 72 to 32.7 mN/m, interfacial tension of 1.7 mN/m, CMC 1.25% (w/v), emulsifying activity 3.73 UEA /mL using post-frying soybean oil, as well as stability against pH, temperature and salinity. The anionic character of biosurfactant showed a polymeric composition (39.56% carbohydrates, 33.78% lipids and 10.4% protein). In the same assay (central points) was observed accumulation of a biomass with 57% of lipids in the dry weight, with a chemical composition of unsaturated fatty acids (palmitoleic, oleic and linoleic acids) and saturated (palmitic and stearic acids). The results show that P. spinulosum is an oleaginous filamentous fungus, promising with high biotechnological potential in the production of biosurfactant and lipids to the biodiesel formation and the ability to use agro-industrial waste as alternative and renewable sources, reducing the production costs of both products. / Biossurfactantes são moléculas anfipáticas de origem microbiana que apresentam atividade em diferentes tipos de superfícies, elevada biodegradabilidade, baixa toxicidade, sendo produzidos a partir de fontes renováveis, e apresentando aplicações sob condições extremas de pH e temperatura. Os micro-organismos oleaginosos apresentam como principal característica a habilidade de acumular lipídeos acima de 20% do seu peso seco, sendo quimicamente descritos como triacilgliceróis, apresentando uma constituição comparável aos óleos vegetais e animais, sendo sua composição química semelhante ao biodiesel. Ensaios foram realizados visando à produção simultânea de biossurfactante e lipídeos por Penicillium spinulosum UCP1347, utilizando como substratos milhocina (5%) e óleo de soja pós-fritura (3%), aplicando um planejamento experimental do tipo Delineamento Composto Central Rotacional DCCR 22. A fermentação foi realizada em frascos de Erlenmyers contendo 100mL do meio de acordo com o DCCR, 5% de inóculo da suspensão de 107 esporos/mL, incubados à temperatura de 280C, agitação orbital de 150rpm e 96h. Ao final da fermentação, o líquido metabólico livre de células apresentou a produção de um biossurfactante que reduziu a tensão superficial da água de 72 para 32,7 mN/m, tensão interfacial de 1,7 mN/m, CMC de 1,25%(p/v), atividade de emulsificação de 3,73 UEA/mL utilizando óleo de soja pós-fritura, como também estabilidade frente a variações de pH, temperatura e salinidade. O biossurfactante de caráter aniônico apresentou uma composição polimérica (39,56% de carboidratos, 33,78% de lipídeos e 10,4% de proteínas). No mesmo ensaio (pontos centrais) foi observado uma biomassa com acumulação de 57% de lipídeos, em relação ao peso seco, com uma composição química de ácidos graxos insaturados (ácido palmitoléico, oléico e linoléico) e saturados (ácido palmítico e esteárico). Os resultados obtidos demonstram que o P. spinulosum é um fungo filamentoso oleaginoso, promissor, com elevado potencial biotecnológico na produção de biossurfactante e lipídeos de constituição comparável ao biodiesel, além da habilidade de utilizar como fontes alternativas e renováveis os resíduos agroindustriais, reduzindo o custo de produção de ambos os produtos.

Submitted by Biblioteca Central (biblioteca@unicap.br) on 2018-02-19T17:29:12Z No. of bitstreams: 1 maria_cleudenora_cassia_mororo.pdf: 880158 bytes, checksum: ea675b48ea15f324c1021f82c3bd3508 (MD5) / Made available in DSpace on 2018-02-19T17:29:12Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 1 maria_cleudenora_cassia_mororo.pdf: 880158 bytes, checksum: ea675b48ea15f324c1021f82c3bd3508 (MD5) Previous issue date: 2017-08-30 / Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior - CAPES# / #2075167498588264571# / #600 / Conselho Nacional de Pesquisa e Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico - CNPq# / #-2555911436985713659# / #600 / Cellulases (E.C. 3.2.1.4) are enzymes responsible for the degradation of cellulose, are molecules capable of accelerating chemical reactions and breaking the chemical bonds between glucose units. Cellulases correspond to the complex consisting of three enzymes endoglucanases, exoglucanases and beta-glucosidases, with diverse applications, being the microbial biotechnological processes responsible for a great part of the world economy, yet the costs of production are still very high. In this context, 25 strains of filamentous fungi (Ascomycetes) isolated from mangrove sediments of Rio Formoso, PE, Brazil, were investigated to investigate the production potential of the enzymes of the cellulolytic complex. The initial studies were carried out by selecting the fungi with the highest enzymatic activity, through the detection of cellulolytic activity in solid synthetic medium, with carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) as the substrate. The results indicated the presence of the cellulase enzyme through the formation of halo in 3 strains of the genus Trichoderma, 3 strains of the genus Aspergillus and 1 strain of the genus Penicillium. The most representative enzymatic indices were those of Penicillium sp. UCP 0279 with Index of 2,2, followed by Aspergillus flavus UCP 1413 with enzymatic index of 1,7. Submerged fermentations were carried out to evaluate the endoglucanase activity, exoglucanase and β-glycosidase, using agroindustrial residues, tangerine peel, pineapple peel, pineapple crown, wheat bran and corn bran as substrate. The results indicated a CMCase activity of 20.2 IU / mL for Penicillium sp. UCP 0279, with wheat bran as substrate in 72 h of fermentation and an activity of 18.3 IU / mL in 24 h with the pineapple crown. For the Aspergillus flavus UCP 1413, the yield was 14.9 IU / mL and 14.5 IU / mL with the residues of corn bran and pineapple peel respectively, and both results were obtained with 24 h of fermentation. The FPase activity for Penicillium sp. UCP 0279, using pineapple peel as substrate had 45.5 IU / mL and the tangerine peel 42.8 IU / mL, both in fermentation at 48 h. For A. flavus UCP 1413 the pineapple crown presented 25.0 IU / mL enzymatic activity in 24 h and the pineapple peel 14.4 U / mL at the same time. In the activity of the enzyme β-glycosidase, Penicillium sp. UCP 0279 showed a production of 18.2 IU / mL in 24 h, with the pineapple crown residue and the pineapple peel had 9.1 IU / mL in 48 h. The A. flavus UCP 1413 presented with 96 h of fermentation an activity of 16.9 U / mL and 14.5 U / mL, with wheat bran and corn bran, respectively. / As celulases (E.C. 3.2.1.4) são enzimas responsáveis pela degradação da celulose, são moléculas capazes de acelerar reações químicas e realizar a quebra das ligações químicas existentes entre as unidades de glicose. As celulases correspondem ao complexo constituído por três enzimas endoglucanases, exoglucanases e beta-glicosidases, com diversas aplicações, sendo os processos biotecnológicos microbianos responsáveis por uma grande parcela da economia mundial, contudo os custos de produção ainda são muito elevados. Neste contexto, foi realizada a bioprospecção de 25 linhagens de fungos filamentosos (Ascomycetes) isolados de sedimentos de mangue do município Rio Formoso, PE, Brasil, investigando o potencial de produção das enzimas do complexo celulolítico. Os estudos iniciais foram realizados selecionando os fungos com maior atividade enzimática, através da detecção da atividade celulolítica em meio sintético sólido, tendo como substrato a carboximetilcelulose (CMC). Os resultados indicaram a presença da enzima celulase através da formação do halo em 3 linhagens do gênero Trichoderma, 3 linhagens do gênero Aspergillus e 1 linhagem do gênero Penicillium. Os índices enzimáticos mais representativos foram os de Penicillium sp. UCP 0279 com Índice de 2,2, seguido de Aspergillus flavus UCP 1413 com índice enzimático de 1,7. Em seguida, foram realizadas fermentações submersas para avaliação da atividade endoglucanase, exoglucanase e β-glicosidase, utilizando resíduos agroindustriais, casca de tangerina, casca de abacaxi, coroa de abacaxi, farelo de trigo e farelo de milho como substrato. Os resultados indicaram uma atividade para CMCase de 20,2 UI/mL para Penicillium sp. UCP 0279, com farelo de trigo como substrato em 72 h de fermentação e com a coroa de abacaxi observou-se uma atividade de 18,3 UI/mL em 24 h. Para o Aspergillus flavus UCP 1413, a produção foi de 14,9 UI/mL e 14,5 UI/mL com os resíduos de farelo de milho e de casca de abacaxi respectivamente, e ambos os resultados foram obtidos com 24 h de fermentação. A atividade FPase para Penicillium sp. UCP 0279, usando casca de abacaxi como substrato apresentou 45,5 UI/mL e a casca de tangerina 42,8 UI/mL, ambos em fermentação a 48 h. Para A. flavus UCP 1413 a coroa de abacaxi apresentou 25,0 UI/mL de atividade enzimática em 24 h e a casca de abacaxi 14,4 U/mL no mesmo tempo. Na atividade da enzima β-glicosidase o Penicillium sp. UCP 0279 apresentou uma produção de 18,2 UI/mL em 24 h, com o resíduo da coroa de abacaxi e com a casca de abacaxi apresentou 9,1 UI/mL em 48 h. O A. flavus UCP 1413 apresentou com 96 h de fermentação uma atividade de 16,9 U/mL e 14,5 U/mL, com farelo de trigo e farelo de milho respectivamente.

Submitted by Biblioteca Central (biblioteca@unicap.br) on 2018-07-18T15:02:02Z No. of bitstreams: 2 laura_truan_oliveira.pdf: 9994700 bytes, checksum: 7ffacf25cb42eb47ae93409cdbdf0fc0 (MD5) license_rdf: 0 bytes, checksum: d41d8cd98f00b204e9800998ecf8427e (MD5) / Made available in DSpace on 2018-07-18T15:02:02Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 2 laura_truan_oliveira.pdf: 9994700 bytes, checksum: 7ffacf25cb42eb47ae93409cdbdf0fc0 (MD5) license_rdf: 0 bytes, checksum: d41d8cd98f00b204e9800998ecf8427e (MD5) Previous issue date: 2017-07-11 / Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior - CAPES# / #2075167498588264571# / #600 / Microorganisms have a high potential in the production of several essential metabolites for various industrial sectors. Among these metabolites are the pigments and biosurfactants that are important molecules used in the food, textile, cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries. In this context, this study was carried out to identify the species of Penicillium sp. Isolated from the soil of the caatinga of Pernambuco, besides producing, isolating and characterizing the pigment and biosurfactant produced. Penicillium sp. isolated were identified by morphological and molecular analyzes (PCR), while pigment and biosurfactant production was performed using medium containing different concentrations of whey and barley according to the Delineation central composite (CCD) 22. Pigment extraction was performed from biomass, purification by thin layer chromatography (TLC) and column chromatography, pigment was preliminarily identified by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). While the biosurfactant was extracted from the metabolic liquid and proved the extracellular production by the surface tension. The results obtained from the classic identification for Aspergilloides indicate that the fungus belongs to the genus and species Penicillium sclerotiorum. This fungus was able to produce high yield of biomass (15.4g/L) and pink pigment (2.23 g/L) in the medium consisting of 8% whey and 6% barley in condition four of the planning. In this medium, the data showed high carbon content (42.56%) and nitrogen (6.28%), resulting in a C / N ratio of 15: 1. The pigment had a pink band with a value of Rf = 0.961, retention time of 2.828 at 247 nm and inhibitory activity for gram-negative bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus and Klebsiella pneumoniae) and Candida glabrata yeast. Still, the maximum biosurfactant production occurred in the medium consisting of 4% whey and 2% barley with a reduction in surface tension from 70 to 27 mN/m. Emulsion index of 68% using engine burned oil, dispersion index of 33.15 cm2 and reduced viscosity from 279.6 to 48.5 cP. Penicillium sclerotiorum demonstrated the ability to produce pigment and biosurfactants from an economic environment consisting of whey and barley, thus presenting a viable alternative for the substitution of synthetic dyes and chemical surfactants meeting the essential requirements for sustainability. / Os micro-organismos apresentam elevado potencial na produção de diversos metabolitos essenciais para diferentes setores industriais. Dentre estes metabolitos estão os pigmentos e biossurfactantes que são importantes biomoléculas utilizadas na indústria alimentícia, têxtil, cosmética e farmacêutica. Neste contexto este estudo foi realizado com objetivo de identificar a espécie de Penicillium sp. isolado do solo da Caatinga de Pernambuco, além de produzir, isolar e caracterizar o pigmento e biossurfactante produzidos. O Penicillium sp. isolado foi identificado por análises morfológicas e molecular (PCR), enquanto a produção do pigmento e biossurfactante foi realizada utilizando meio contendo diferentes concentrações de soro de leite e cevada de acordo com o planejamento Delineamento Composto Central (DCC) de 22. A extração do pigmento foi realizada a partir da biomassa, a purificação através de cromatografia de camada delgada (CCD) e cromatografia em coluna, pigmento foi preliminarmente identificado por cromatografia líquida de alta eficiência (CLAE). Enquanto o biossurfactante foi extraído a partir do liquido metabólico e comprovado a produção extracelular pela tensão superficial. Os resultados obtidos a partir da identificação clássica para Aspergilloides indicam o fungo como pertencente ao gênero e espécie Penicillium sclerotiorum. Este fungo foi capaz de produzir elevado rendimento de biomassa (15,4g/L) e pigmento rosa (2,23 g/L) no meio constituído de 8% de soro de leite e 6% de cevada na condição quatro do planejamento. Neste meio, os resultados demonstraram elevado teor de carbono (42,56%) e nitrogênio (6,28%), resultando na razão de C/N de 15:1. O pigmento apresentou banda de coloração rosa intenso com valor de Rf=0,961, tempo de retenção de 2,828 a 247 nm e atividade inibitória para as bactérias (Staphylococcus aureus e Klebsiella pneumoniae) e na levedura Candida glabrata. Por outro lado a máxima produção de biossurfactante ocorreu no meio constituído por 4% de soro de leite e 2% de cevada com redução da tensão superficial de 70 para 27 mN/m. Um índice de emulsificação de 68% utilizando óleo queimado de motor, índice de dispersão de 33,15 cm2 e viscosidade reduzida de 279,6 para 48,5 cP. Penicillium sclerotiorum demonstrou habilidade de produzir pigmento e biossurfactantes a partir de meio econômico constituído de soro de leite e cevada, apresentando desta forma, uma alternativa viável para substituição dos corantes sintéticos e surfactantes químicos atendendo aos requisitos essenciais para sustentabilidade.

PhD. (Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Technology), Vaal University of Technology. / Water is the essence of life, yet it is progressively polluted by dyes, heavy metal ions, food additives, medicines, detergents, agrochemicals, and other toxins from industrial, municipal, and agricultural sources. Among the different wastewater treatment technologies, adsorption is a technique that, when used in conjunction with a welldesigned system, produces high-quality treated water at a reasonable cost. For water treatment, activated carbon is the most often employed adsorbent. Its manufacture, on the other hand, is energy demanding, costly, and creates greenhouse emissions. As a result, finding low-cost alternative adsorbents from industrial and agricultural waste and biomass has attracted a lot of interest. In this context, developing sustainable platforms for wastewater treatment using sustainable nanomaterials such as cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) is a unique technique with a low carbon footprint. CNCs, which are made by hydrolyzing pulp fibers in sulfuric acid, are rod-like nanomaterials with a lot of remarkable qualities including high specific surface area, high specific strength, hydrophilicity, biodegradability, and surface functionalization. These characteristics, as well as their accessibility, make them suitable candidates for water treatment applications. However, because of their great colloidal stability and nano-dimensions, extracting these CNCs after usage in water treatment is difficult. To overcome this problem, including these CNCs into nanocomposite systems that can be readily separated after usage in batch and continuous water treatment processes is a great concept. Furthermore, pure CNCs have low selectivity towards a wide range of water pollutants, necessitating surface functionalization to provide this selectivity. As a result, this thesis investigates the extraction of CNCs from millet husk waste and waste papers, the development of CNC-incorporated nanocomposites and evaluation of their adsorption characteristics using batch and fixed bed column adsorption studies, and (ii) the evaluation of the selective adsorption characteristics of surface functionalized CNCs and their ability to tailor the nanocomposites' characteristics for use in water treatment applications. The response surface methodology, artificial neural network, and adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference systems were also applied to model the removal of heavy metal ions. The first part of the research ( cellulose nanocrystals extraction and optimization) The cellulose nanocrystals were extracted from millet husk residue waste using a homogenized acid hydrolysis method. The effects of the process variables homogenization speed (A), acid concentration (B), and acid to cellulose ratio (C) on the yield and swelling capacity were investigated and optimized using the Box Behnken design (BBD) method in response surface methodology. The numerical optimization analysis results showed that the maximum yield of CNCs and swelling capacity from cellulose was 93.12 % and 2.81 % obtained at homogenization speed, acid concentration, and acid to cellulose ratio of 7464.0 rpm, 63.40 wt %, and 18.83 wt %, respectively. ANOVA revealed that the most influential parameter in the model was homogenization speed for Yield and acid concentration for swelling capacity. The TGA revealed that cellulose had greater heat stability than CNCs. The functional groups of CNCs and cellulose were identical according to the FTIR data. When compared to cellulose, the SEM picture of CNCs is porous and shows narrow particle size with needle-like shape. The XRD pattern revealed an increase in CNC intensity. The second part of the research ( CNCs modification for selective removal) A novel type of recyclable adsorbents with outstanding adsorption capability was produced using CNCs with succinic anhydride and EDTA. and their adsorption properties were studied in detail utilizing batch adsorption experiments of Chromium (VI) in aqueous solution. The effects of several factors on Cr (VI) adsorption were examined, including contact duration, adsorbent dose, starting concentration, pH, and temperature. The cellulose nanocrystals treated with succinic anhydride and EDTA possessed a needle-like form, high porosity, and a narrow particle size distribution. The carboxylate transition of the carboxyl group of cellulose was verified by FTIR. XRD analysis of particles after modification revealed the presence of additional phases, which were attributed to succinic anhydride and EDTA modification. A spontaneous exothermic adsorption process was validated by the observed thermodynamic characteristics. The best model for describing adsorption kinetics and mechanism was a pseudo-second order kinetic and intra-particle diffusion model. The Langmuir adsorption isotherm was seen in equilibrium adsorption data, with a maximum adsorption capacity (qmax) of 387.25± 0.88 mgL-1. We showed that the removal effectiveness of Cr (VI) maintained at 220± 0.78 mg.g-1after 6 adsorption-desorption cycles, and that the CNC-ALG hydrogel beads are excellent adsorbents for the selective removal of Cr (VI) from wastewaters. The third part of the research ( modeling of removal of heavy metal ions using RSM, ANN and quantum mechanism studies ) The effects of contact time , pH, nanoparticle dose, and beginning Cd2+ concentration on Cd2+ removal were examined using the central composite design (CCD) technique. The performance and prediction capabilities of Response Surface Methodology (RSM) and Artificial Neural Network (ANN) modelling methodologies were explored, as well as their performance and prediction capacities of the response (adsorption capacity). The process was also described using the adsorption isotherm and kinetic models. Statistical data, on the other hand, revealed that the RSM-CCD model beat the ANN model technique. The optimum conditions were determined to be a pH of 5.73, a contact time of 310 minutes, an initial Cd2+ concentration of 323.04 mg/L, a sorbent dosage of 16.36 mg, and an adsorption capacity of 440.01 mg/g. The spontaneous adsorption process was well characterized by the Langmuir model, and chemisorption was the dominant regulator. The binding energy gaps HOMO-LUMO were used to find the preferred adsorption sites. The fourth part of research ( optimization of removal using ANN and ANFIS) An artificial neural network and an adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system were utilized to predict the adsorption capability of mix hydrogels in the removal of nickel (II) from aqueous solution. Four operational variables were evaluated in the ANFIS model to determine their influence on the adsorption study, including starting Ni (II) concentration (mg/L), pH, contact time (min), and adsorbent dosage (mg/L) as inputs and removal percentage (percent) as the single output. In contrast, 70% of the data was employed to develop the ANN model, while 15% of the data was used in testing and validation. To train the network, feedforward propagation with the Levenberg-Marquardt algorithm was used. To optimise, design, and develop prediction models for Ni (II) adsorption using blend hydrogels, (ANN) and (ANFIS) models were employed for trials. The results demonstrate that the ANN and ANFIS models are viable prediction techniques for metal ion adsorption. The fourth part of research ( mechanistic modeling and optimization of removal using ANN, RSM and ANFIS) An artificial neural network, response surface methodology and an adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system were utilized to predict the adsorption capability of modified cellulose nanocrystals and sodium alginate for the removal of Cr (VI) from aqueous solution. Four variables such as time, pH, concentration, and adsorbent dose were evaluated to determine their influence on the adsorption study. To examine the viability of the models, five statistical functions ( RMSE, ARE, SSE, MSE, and MPSD) were applied. absorption mechanism was described via four mechanistic models (Film diffusion, Weber and Morris, Bangham, and Dummwald-Wagner models. Further statistical indices supported ANFIS as the best prediction model for adsorption compared to ANN and RSM. Film diffusion was identified as the rate-limiting process via mechanistic modelling. The sixth part of research (continuous fixed-bed column study) The hydrogel's technical feasibility for adsorption of Cu2+, Ni2+, +Cd2+, and Zn2+ ions from the packed bed column's produced AMD was assessed. The hydrogel was considered to have a high potential for significant interactions with dangerous metal ions. This characteristic, together with the adsorbent's availability, low cost, and efficient regeneration of the spent adsorbent, distinguishes it from the many other adsorbents described in the literature by other researchers. With a bed height of 25 cm, an influent metal ion concentration of 10 mg/l, and a flow velocity of 10 ml/min, the bed performed better. As a consequence, the breakthrough curve for the packed bed experiment shows that the breakthrough points were approached sooner by increasing the flow rate and influent concentration, and later by increasing the bed height. The experimental results were satisfactorily described by the BDST, Yoon–Nelson, and Thomas models. The hydrogels had a net-work structure and more homogeneous porosity, according to the SEM, TGA, XRD, and FTIR results for CNCs. The hydrogels revealed varied degrees of opacity and heavy metal ions absorption capacity depending on the temperature of the analysis. Diffraction confirmed the existence of crystalline structures and the presence of carboxyl and amide groups.

M. Tech. (Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Applied and Computer Sciences) -- Vaal University of Technology / The widespread use of phenols and phenolic derivatives in industrial applications has resulted in their discharge as part of industrial wastewater. These chemicals are toxic and need to be removed from the aqueous environment. Amongst the available pollutant removal technologies, adsorption has been widely used due to its simplicity, ease of operation, cost-effectiveness and ability to sequester pollutants at very low concentrations. Different adsorbents have been applied for removal of phenols and their derivatives. Use of agricultural waste as adsorbents seems to offer a much cheaper alternative in pollutant removal. This study examines the synthesis of a hydrophobic biomaterial composite by cross-linking of Fenton treated pine cone and applying the prepared adsorbent for 2-nitrophenol removal from aqueous solution. Pine cone biomass, in its raw and modified forms was tested for its ability to remove 2-nitrophenol from simulated industrial wastewater. The experimental procedure is divided into two main parts: (1) pine cone modification using Fenton’s reagent and 1.6-hexamethylene diisocyanate and (2) application of the prepared hydrophobic adsorbent for 2-nitrophenol removal from wastewater. Fenton’s reagent was used to remove pigments, extractives and other soluble organic compounds from the raw pine. FTIR spectroscopy showed an increase in magnitude of oxygenated surface groups which resulted in a decrease in pHpzc. The effect of Fenton treatment on further modification of the pine biomass via cross-linking using 1.6-hexamethylene diisocyanate was investigated. Optimum reaction variables for the cross-linking using dibutyltin dilaurate as catalyst under an inert nitrogen gas atmosphere in anhydrous hexane solvent were determined using FTIR spectroscopy. Success of the cross-linking procedure was confirmed by use of analytical techniques (XRD, TGA, SEM, EDX and BET surface area) and weight percent gain calculations. Pine and modified pine biomass were tested for their ability to sequester 2-nitrophenol via batch adsorption technique. The effect of pine modification on affinity for the biosorbate was investigated. The mechanism of the adsorption process was determined via use of kinetic, diffusion and equilibrium isotherm models. Two error functions (coefficient of determination and percent variable error) were employed to substantiate the model showing a good fit to the experimental adsorption data. The experimental adsorption kinetic data was fit to the pseudo-first-order and pseudo-second-order kinetic models. Due to the large size of the pollutant molecules diffusion process analysis was also conducted. The effect of pine modification on kinetic and diffusion parameters was determined. The experimental equilibrium adsorption data was fit to the Freundlich, Redlich-Peterson and Hill isotherm models. The initial shapes of the adsorption isotherms for 2-nitrophenol adsorption onto pine and modified pine biomass determined the type of equilibrium isotherm models to fit the experimental data to. Thermodynamic parameters were calculated to determine the spontaneity, feasibility and energy changes associated with the adsorption process. The degree of disorder at the solid/liquid interface after the adsorption was determined. The effect of temperature on the adsorption process was used to show whether the adsorption is physical or chemical. The effect of pine modification on equilibrium isotherm parameters was determined. The study is divided into seven chapters: Chapter 1: The chapter covers the introduction, problem statement, aim and objectives of the research. It gives an insight into the research project. Chapter 2: The literature review of pollutants in industrial wastewater and methods of their removal is dealt with in this chapter. Adsorption is introduced as an alternative technique for pollutant removal from aqueous systems. An in-depth review of various adsorbents (including pine cone), their merits and limitations are also discussed together with methods of modifying and use of modified adsorbents. Equilibrium, kinetic and thermodynamic models used to treat adsorption experimental data are presented. Chapter 3: The experimental procedures on the synthesis, characterization and application of the hydrophobic biosorbent in the removal of 2-nitrophenol from aqueous solution are presented. Kinetic and equilibrium experiments are described in detail. Chapter 4: It describes the first part of the results and discussions. The chapter focuses on optimization of reaction variables and characterization (using various analytical techniques) of the hydrophobic biomaterial composite. Chapter 5 The chapter discusses the second part of the results. It focuses on magnitude of surface charge, pHpzc and kinetic studies. Fitting of the adsorption experimental data to kinetic and diffusion models is presented together with the error functions. Chapter 6 The chapter discusses part three of the results on equilibrium studies. The adsorption experimental data is fitted to equilibrium isotherm equations and error determination is presented. Thermodynamic parameters are calculated and interpreted. Chapter 7: Conclusion and recommendations are presented. The optimum reaction variables for cross-linking of Raw and Fenton treated pine cone were determined using FTIR analysis and found to be: 0.2 g pine biomass, 3.5 cm3 1.6-hexamethylene diisocyanate cross-linker, 50 cm3 anhydrous hexane solvent, 1.5 cm3 dibutyltin dilaurate catalyst, temperature of 50 °C and a reaction time of 4 hours. The pine surface showed an increase in phenolic, lactonic and carboxylic acid groups due to the modification. The pHpzc showed a decrease due to modification of the pine cone biomass. The pHpzc values for the pine and modified pine cone biomass were found to be: Raw = 7.49, Raw-HMDI modified = 6.68, Fenton treated pine = 5.40 and Fenton-HMDI modified = 6.12. The optimum pH for the adsorption of 2-nitrophenol onto raw pine and modified pine cone biomass was determined to be 6. The optimum adsorbent dosage was determined as 1.5 g/dm3. The adsorption kinetics show a good fit with the pseudo-second-order model. This suggests that surface adsorption is the controlling step in the adsorption of 2-nitrophenol onto pine cone biomass. The analysis of diffusion processes showed that the initial rapid stage during the adsorption is due to external mass transfer processes. The adsorption experimental data also showed that pore diffusion was rate-limiting amongst the diffusion processes. Pine modification using Fenton’s reagent and 1.6-hexamethylene diisocyanate increased magnitude of kinetic and diffusion parameters. Experimental data for 2-nitrophenol adsorption onto pine and modified pine cone biomass showed better correlation with the Redlich-Peterson and Hill isotherm models and poor correlation with the Freundlich isotherm model. This suggests that the mechanism does not show complete multilayer coverage with cooperative phenomena between adsorbate molecules. Thermodynamic parameters showed that the adsorption is feasible, spontaneous, and exothermic and results in a decrease in degree of disorder at the solid/liquid interface. An increase in temperature resulted in a decrease in adsorption capacity showing that the adsorption is physical. Pine modification using Fenton’s reagent and 1.6-hexamethylene diisocyanate increased magnitude of kinetic, diffusion and isotherm parameters. The kinetic and equilibrium results show that the adsorption of 2-nitrophenol onto pine cone biomass follows the order: Fenton treated-HMDI > Fenton treated > Raw-HMDI > Raw. Hence, it can be concluded that Fenton treatment and HMDI cross-linking modification did increase the adsorptive capabilities of the pine cone biomass. / VUT Research Directorate

A high priority in order to combat climate change is disposal of waste. In low-income countries, a large portion of biomass residues generated in the forestry, agricultural and industrial sectors could be usable, instead of being seen as waste. For instance, it could be converted into biochar, which is proven to have many environmental benefits. In Rwanda, the agricultural sector employs 80% of the population and accounts for 35% of GDP. This sector, together with later refinement of crops and forestry production, cause large amounts of residue that many times is considered as waste. In this report, a literature study was conducted to evaluate possible biochar production from agricultural and wood wastes in Rwanda. Characteristics that determine if a biomass could be suitable for a biochar production were identified as C, H, O, N, S, hemicellulose, cellulose, lignin, ash and moisture content, residue-to-product ratio, and low heating value. These characteristics were assessed for the chosen Rwandan agricultural and wood wastes, by compiling values from published reports. The result shows that there are large volumes of residues that have potential for biochar production instead of being seen as waste in Rwanda. Biochar production from these wastes could enable environmental benefits for Rwanda, although further investigation of each single biomass could be needed in order to see if it is practically, technically and financially possible to do in reality. / För att bekämpa klimatförändringen är avfallshantering en hög prioritet. I låginkomstländer kan en stor andel av biomassarester som genereras i skogsbruk, jordbruks- och industrisektorer vara användbara, istället för att ses som avfall. Till exempel skulle det kunna omvandlas till biokol, som har visats sig ha många miljömässiga fördelar. I Rwanda arbetar 80% av befolkningen inom jordbrukssektorn och den står för 35% av BNP. Denna sektor, tillsammans med förädling av grödor och skogsbruksproduktion, orsakar stora mängder rester som många gånger betraktas som avfall. I denna rapport genomfördes en litteraturstudie för att utvärdera möjlig produktion av biokol från jordbruks- och träavfall i Rwanda. Egenskaper som avgör om en biomassa kan vara lämplig för en biokolsproduktion identifierades som C-, H-, O-, N-, S-, hemicellulosa-, cellulosa-, lignin-, ask- och fukthalt, samt andel avfall som uppstår i förhållande till färdig produkt och värmevärde. Dessa egenskaper utvärderades för det valda jordbruks- och träavfallet genom att sammanställa värden från publicerade rapporter. Resultatet visar att det finns stora volymer rester som har potential för biokolsproduktion istället för att ses som avfall i Rwanda. En biokolsproduktion från dessa avfall skulle kunna ge miljömässiga fördelar för Rwanda, även om ytterligare undersökning av varje enskild biomassa skulle behövas för att se om det är praktiskt, tekniskt och ekonomiskt möjligt att genomföra i verkligheten.

Global cement production is continuously increasing from 1990 till 2050 and growing particularly rapidly in developing countries, where it represents a crucial element for infrastructure development and industrialisation. Every tonne of ordinary Portland cement (OPC) produced releases, on average, about 800 kg of CO2 into the atmosphere, or, in total, the overall production of cement represents roughly 7% of all man-made carbon emissions. The present paper aims to deepen the re-use of agricultural solid waste materials as partial replacement of OPC, which can positively contribute to the sustainability of the concrete industry because of their availability and environmental friendliness. In particular, rice-husk ash (RHA) and oat-husk ash (OHA), burned under the right conditions, can have a high reactive silica content, representing very potential pozzolans. The mechanical and physical characteristics of both materials are investigated to evaluate the influence on concrete properties. Subsequently, using the environmental product declarations (EPDs) of the material used, a comparative environmental impact analysis between RHA concrete and ordinary concrete having the same resistance class, is presented. It is concluded that the use of RHA as supplementary cementitious material can serve a viable and sustainable partial replacement to OPC for the reduction of CO2 emissions and global warming potential. / Den globala cementproduktionen ökar från 1990 till 2050 och växer särskilt snabbt i utvecklingsländer, där den utgör en viktig del för infrastrukturutveckling och industrialisering. Varje ton vanligt portlandcement (OPC) släpper i genomsnitt ut cirka 800 kg koldioxid i atmosfären, och, totalt, representerar den totala cementproduktionen ungefär 7% av alla koldioxidutsläpp från mänsklig verksamhet. Det här examensarbetet syftar till att fördjupa kunskapen om och därmed i förlängningen återanvändningen av fasta avfallsmaterial från jordbruket som delvis ersättning av OPC, vilket kan bidra till hållbarheten i betongindustrin på grund av deras tillgänglighet och miljövänlighet. I synnerhet kan risskalaska (RHA) och havreskalaska (OHA), som bränns under rätt process, ha en hög reaktiv kiseldioxidhalt, vilket representerar mycket potentiella puzzolaner. De mekaniska och fysiska egenskaperna hos båda materialen har undersökts för att utvärdera deras inverkan på betongegenskaper. Därefter presenteras en jämförande miljökonsekvensanalys mellan RHA-betong och OPC-betong med samma motståndsklass med användning av miljövarudeklaration (EPD) för det använda materialet. Man drar slutsatsen att användningen av RHA som alternativt bindemedel (SCM) till OPC kan hjälpa till att minska koldioxidutsläppen och den globala uppvärmningspotentialen.

Tesis por compendio / [ES] Debido a la preocupación por la contaminación derivada del uso de los plásticos y la gran cantidad de residuos generados a nivel mundial, se desarrollaron diferentes compuestos plásticos reforzados con fibras naturales respetuosos con el medio ambiente (WPC) para su caracterización y optimización. En primer lugar, se utilizó polietileno de alta densidad de base biológica (BioHDPE) como matriz polimérica y diferentes fibras cortas naturales como el cáñamo, el lino y el yute. Se mezclaron mediante extrusión de doble husillo y se moldearon en piezas mediante moldeo por inyección, se añadió un copolímero de injerto de etileno con anhídrido maleico (PE-g-MA) a dos partes por cien de resina al WPC durante el proceso de extrusión para reducir la falta de compatibilidad entre las fibras lignocelulósicas y la matriz polimérica. Como resultado, se observó en el análisis térmico, una ligera mejora de la estabilidad térmica de los compuestos reforzados con las tres fibras, aumentado la temperatura de fusión y de degradación del compuesto. Además, también aumentó la absorción de agua de los compuestos. Se obtuvo, especialmente, un aumento drástico del módulo de Young y de la resistencia al impacto de los compuestos con refuerzo de fibra de cáñamo. Debido a estos resultados, a continuación, se realizó un estudio con la misma matriz polimérica (BioHDPE) y diferentes porcentajes (2,5 a 40,0% en peso) de fibras cortas de cáñamo (HF) como refuerzo natural, utilizando la misma técnica por fusión y extrusión de doble husillo del compuesto que se moldeo por inyección. También se utilizó como agente compatibilizante, el copolímero maleinizado, de injerto de etileno con anhídrido maleico (PE-g-MA) para mejorar la escasa compatibilidad entre la matriz de BioHDPE altamente no polar y las fibras lignocelulósicas altamente hidrofílicas. El 40% en peso de fibra dio como resultado un aumento importante del módulo de Young y la resistencia al impacto del BioHDPE, obteniendo valores de 5275 MPa y 3,6 kJ/m2, respectivamente, en comparación con el bioHDPE puro de 826 MPa y 2,0 kJ/m2. En cuanto al cambio de color de las muestras inyectadas, se observó que el aumento de fibra generó una clara modificación en las tonalidades finales de las piezas, alcanzando colores muy similares a las maderas oscuras para porcentajes superiores al 20%.Finalmente, se desarrollaron nuevos composites de alto rendimiento mediomabiental utilizando un 30% de fibra corta de cáñamo y como matriz polimérica copolímero de polibutilén succinato-co-adipato paracialmente de origen renovable (BioPBSA). En este caso, para mejorar la interacción entre la fibra y la matriz no solo se empleó el injerto copolímero de PBSA injertado con anhídrido maleico (PBSA-g-MA), sino que se utilizaron diferentes aditivos por extrusión reactiva al composite como aditivos derivados del ácido itacónico de base biológica, como el dibutil itaconato (DBI) y un copolímero de PBSA injertado con ácido itacónico (PBSA-g-IA). La introducción de fibras de cáñamo, dieron como resultado una mejora en la rigidez del polímero base, el módulo de tracción del BioPBSA puro 281 MPa aumentó considerablemente alcanzando valores de 3482 MPa. Los compuestos con DBI obtuvieron una mejora en la ductilidad y una disminución en las propiedades de tracción, en contraste con las muestras compatibles con copolímeros que mejoraron la resistencia a la tracción. / [CA] Degut a la preocupació per la contaminació derivada de l'us dels plàstics i la gran quantitat de residus generats a nivell mundial, es desenvoluparen diferents compostos reforçats amb fibres naturals respectuoses amb el medi ambient (WPC) per a la seva caracterització i optimització. En primer lloc, es va utilitzar polietilè d'alta densitat de base biològica (BioHDPE) com a matriu polimèrica i diferents fibres curtes naturals com el cànem, el lli i jute. Es van fondre mitjançant extrusió de doble tornavís i es moldejaren en peces mitjançant moldejat per injecció, es va afegir un copolímer d'empelt d'etlé i anhídrid maleic (PE-g-MA) a dues parts per cent de resina al WPC durant el procés d'extrusió per a reduir la falta de compatibilitat entre les fibres lignocel·lulòsiques i la matriu polimèrica. Com a resultat, es va observar en l'anàlisis tèrmica, una lleugera millora de l'estabilitat tèrmica dels compostos reforçats amb les tres fibres , augmentant la temperatura de fusió i de degradació dels compostos. Es va obtenir, especialment, un augment dràstic del mòdul de Young i de la resistència a l'impacte dels compostos amb reforç de fibra de cànem. Degut a aquestos resultats, a continuació es va realitzar un estudi amb la mateixa matriu polimèrica (BioHDPE) i diferents percentatges (2,5 a 40,0% en pes) de fibra curta de cànem (HF) com a reforç natural, utilitzant la mateixa tècnica per fusió i extrusió de doble tornavís del compost que es va moldejar per injecció. També es va utilitzar com agent compatibilitzant, el copolímer meleinitzat, anhídrid maleic d'empelt de polietilè (PE-g-MA) per millorar l'escassa compatibilitat entre la matriu de BioHDPE altament no polar i les fibres lignocel·lulòsiques altament hidrofíliques. El 40% en pes de fibra va donar com a resultat un augment important del mòdul de Young i la resistència a l'impacte del BioHDPE, obtenint valors de 5275 MPa i 3,6 kJ/m2, respectivament, en comparació amb el bioHDPE pur de 826 MPa i 2,0 kJ/m2. En quant al canvi de color de les mostres injectades, es va observar que l'augment de fibra va generar una clara modificació en les tonalitats finals de les peces, aconseguint colors molt similars a les fustes fosques per a percentatges superiors al 20%.Finalment, es van desenvolupar nous composites d'alt rendiment medioambiental utilitzant un 30% de fibra curta de cànem i com a matriu polimèrica copolímer de polibutilèn succinat-co-adipat paracialment d'origen renovable (BioPBSA). En aquest cas, per millorar la interacció entre la fibra i la matriu no només es va emprar l'empelt copolímer de PBSA empeltat amb anhídrid maleic (PBSA-g-MA), sinó que es van utilitzar diferents additius per extrusió reactiva al composite com a additius derivats de l'àcid itacònic de base biològica, com el dibutil itaconat (DBI) i un copolímer de PBSA empeltat amb àcid itacònic (PBSA-g-IA). La introducció de fibres de cànem, van donar com a resultat una millora en la rigidesa del polímer base, el mòdul de tracció del BioPBSA pur 281 MPa va augmentar considerablement aconseguint valors de 3482 MPa. Els compostos amb DBI van obtenir una millora en la ductilitat i una disminució en les propietats de tracció, en contrast amb les mostres compatibles amb copolímers que van millorar la resistència a la tracció. / [EN] Due to the concern about the pollution derived from the use of plastics and the large amount of waste generated worldwide, different environmentally friendly natural fiber reinforced plastic compounds (WPC) were developed for their characterization and optimization. First, bio-based high-density polyethylene (BioHDPE) was used as the polymer matrix and different natural short fibers such as hemp, flax and jute. They were fused by twin screw extrusion and molded into pieces by injection molding. Polyethylene graft maleic anhydride (PE-g-MA) was added at two parts per hundred resin to the WPC during the extrusion process to reduce the lack of compatibility between the lignocellulosic fibers and the polymeric matrix. As a result, a slight improvement in the thermal stability of the composites reinforced with the three fibers was observed in the thermal analysis, increasing the melting temperature and degradation of the composite. In addition, it also increased the water absorption of the compounds. In particular, a drastic increase in the Young's modulus and the impact resistance of the hemp fiber reinforced composites was obtained. Due to these results, a study was then carried out with the same polymeric matrix (bioHDPE) and different percentages (2,5 to 40,0% by weight) of short hemp fibers (HF) as natural reinforcement, using the same technique by melt compunding and extrusion with a twin screw extruder, followed by injection moulding. The maleinized copolymer, polyethylene graft maleic anhydride (PE-g-MA) was also used as a compatibilizing agent to improve the poor compatibility between the highly non-polar BioHDPE matrix and the highly hydrophilic lignocellulosic fibers. The 40 wt% fiber resulted in a significant increase in Young's modulus and impact strength of BioHDPE, obtaining values of 5275 MPa and 3.6 kJ/m2, respectively, compared to pure bioHDPE of 826 MPa and 826 MPa. 2.0kJ/m2. Regarding the color change of the injected samples, it was observed that the increase in fiber generated a clear change in the final shades of the pieces, reaching colors very similar to dark wood for percentages greater than 20%.Finally, new green composites were developed using 30% short hemp fiber and a partically biobased polybutylene succinate-co-adipate copolymer (BioPBSA) as polymeric matrix. In this case, to improve the interaction between the fiber and the matrix, not only was the PBSA graft copolymer grafted with maleic anhydride (PBSA-g-MA) used, but different additives were used by reactive extrusion to the composite as additives derived from the Bio-based itaconic acid, such as dibutyl itaconate (DBI) and a copolymer of PBSA grafted with itaconic acid (PBSA-g-IA). The introduction of hemp fibers resulted in an improvement in the stiffness of the base polymer, the tensile modulus of pure BioPBSA 281 MPa increased considerably, reaching values of 3482 MPa. Composites with DBI obtained an improvement in ductility and a decrease in tensile properties, in contrast to samples compatible with copolymers that improved tensile strength. / Agradecer al Fondo Europeo de Desarrollo Regional (FEDER) de la Unión Europea por cofinanciar el proyecto “NABITEX—Textiles técnicos innovadores basados en fibras naturales SUDOE para ser aplicados en el Sector del Hábitat” a través del Programa SUDOE de Interreg (SOE2/P1/ P0524). / Dolçà Camáñez, C. (2022). Desarrollo y optimización de wood plastic composites con matriz biopolimérica y fibras naturales [Tesis doctoral]. Universitat Politècnica de València. https://doi.org/10.4995/Thesis/10251/185679 / TESIS / Compendio