https://repositorio.ufu.br/handle/123456789/5147 2026-08-27T00:59:58Z https://repositorio.ufu.br/handle/123456789/49834 Title: Application of membrane separation processes to purify and concentrate bioactive extracts from annatto seeds (Bixa orellana L.) Abstract: The growing demand for natural colorants and functional compounds highlights the strategic potential of annatto (Bixa orellana L.), especially due to the presence of bixin, norbixin, and phenolic compounds. However, conventional extraction and purification methods still present limitations regarding efficiency, sustainability, and environmental impact. In this context, membrane separation processes emerge as an innovative and environmentally responsible alternative, capable of producing purer, more stable extracts with higher added value, in line with current industrial and regulatory requirements. This study aimed to investigate the application of polymeric and ceramic membranes for the purification and concentration of bioactive compounds from annatto seed extracts, with emphasis on the influence of membrane structure and material on the retention efficiency of bixin, phenolic compounds, and the associated antioxidant potential. The methodology encompassed the production of alumina-based hollow fiber ceramic membranes, subsequently characterized in terms of morphology, mechanical strength, chemical stability, and filtration performance. In parallel, experiments were conducted using polymeric membranes in a dead-end configuration, with the aim of evaluating their selectivity and retention capacity of bioactive compounds. Furthermore, the use of natural deep eutectic solvents, classified as a green alternative, was investigated for bixin extraction, with results compared to those obtained by conventional solvents, such as ethanol and water. The resulting samples were analyzed using chromatographic techniques, including high-performance liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry, enabling the precise quantification of bixin and phenolic compounds. The main results revealed that polymeric membranes with a molecular weight cut-off (MWCO) of 5 kDa were able to retain up to 90% of bixin and approximately 54.2% of phenolics compounds. The microfiltration ceramic hollow fiber membranes showed similar performance, reaching retentions close to 90% of bixin and 47,53% of phenolics compounds. The final permeate fluxes with polymeric and ceramic membranes were of 10.72 and 9,26 L h-1 m-2, respectively. Thus, both membranes were efficient for the concentration of bioactive compounds from annatto seed extracts, which reinforces the role of additional retention mechanisms in addition to the pore size exclusion. Results regarding the use of natural deep eutectic solvents confirmed not only higher extraction efficiency but also demonstrated their ability to stabilize bixin, preventing its degradation and ensuring greater preservation of bioactive properties. In these trials, the maximum yield reached 2.31% (w/w), while the ethanol:water mixture (1:1 v/v) yielded only 0.0075% (w/w) for bixin extraction. In addition to the superior performance, the extracts obtained were richer in bixin and showed greater stability compared to those produced by conventional solvents, reinforcing both the technical feasibility and the environmentally sustainable contribution of green solvents over the evaluated alternatives. It is concluded that membrane separation processes associated with natural deep eutectic solvents represent a promising route for the valorization of annatto seeds, by combining technical efficiency, sustainability, and feasibility of industrial-scale application. This study contributes to broadening the understanding of the use of clean technologies in obtaining natural colorants and bioactive compounds, providing foundations for the development of innovative processes aimed at the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries. 2026-07-29T00:00:00Z https://repositorio.ufu.br/handle/123456789/49778 Title: Análise da força gel de fluidos de perfuração contendo microesferas ocas de vidro Abstract: This study investigated the rheological behavior of gel strength in olefin-based synthetic drilling fluids modified with hollow glass microspheres (HGMs). The development of low- density fluids is essential for drilling fragile or depleted formations or those with narrow operational windows, reducing the risk of rock fracturing, undesired circulation losses, and formation damage. Gel strength is a critical rheological property that ensures the static suspension of drilling cuttings and weighting agents during circulation interruption, preventing solids settlement without generating excessive pressure spikes upon pump restart. Using a Central Composite Rotatable Design (CCRD) seventeen samples were formulated by varying the concentrations of lime, hollow glass microspheres (HGS19K46), and organophilic viscosifier. Tests were performed in triplicate at 30°C on a coaxial cylinder rheometer to measure gel strength after 10 seconds (G10s) and 10 minutes (G10min), adopting Petrobras' maximum reference limits of 10 and 15 lbf/100 ft², respectively. Results showed that nine formulations met the G10s criterion and six satisfied both parameters simultaneously (PE4, PE6, PE14, PE15, PE16, and PE17). Variable analysis revealed that approval was primarily conditioned on lower organophilic viscosifier concentrations (10.2 to 12 lb/bbl), whereas the simultaneous increase of additives in sample PE10 resulted in the highest gel value (33. lbf/100 ft² for G10min). It is concluded that the incorporation of hollow glass microspheres enables the formulation of viable low-density fluids, in which strict control of viscosifier dosage ensures fragile, flat gels, preserving wellbore integrity and maintaining hydrostatic pressure within safe operational limits. 2026-08-05T00:00:00Z https://repositorio.ufu.br/handle/123456789/49739 Title: Análise comparativa de polímeros utilizados em embalagens cosméticas: bioplásticos, polímeros reciclados e suas propriedades de barreira e durabilidade Abstract: This research project aims to comparatively analyze the performance of polymers used in cosmetic packaging, with an emphasis on bioplastics and recycled polymers, based on their barrier properties and durability. The study will be conducted using a qualitative, exploratory, and bibliographic approach, with data collected from recognized scientific databases. The functional, aesthetic, and environmental requirements for packaging in the cosmetics sector will be investigated, as well as the physicochemical properties of the materials analyzed. Based on this, a technical comparative analysis will be carried out using parameters extracted from the literature, such as gas permeability and mechanical resistance, in order to evaluate the technical and sustainable feasibility of these materials as alternatives to conventional plastics. It is expected that the results will support more informed material selection and contribute to the adoption of practices aligned with the circular economy in the cosmetics sector. 2026-03-18T00:00:00Z https://repositorio.ufu.br/handle/123456789/49681 Title: O Uso de uma Plataforma WordPress para Melhoria do Ensino em Engenharia Química na Universidade Federal de Uberlândia Abstract: This study analyzes the development of a digital environment as a pedagogical support tool for the Chemical Engineering program at the Federal University of Uberlândia (UFU). The research is justified by the historically high dropout rates in STEM programs and by the mandatory compliance with the 2019 National Curriculum Guidelines (Diretrizes Curriculares Nacionais – DCNs), which require a transition to a student-centered and competency-based educational model. The methodology involved the planning, design, and structuring of a Content Management System (CMS), followed by the availability of lectures, extracurricular materials, and courses related to the field. Operational results demonstrated that the platform presents technical feasibility and sustainable financial viability, achieving relevant organic traffic in the dissemination of knowledge and extension activities for the external community. As a practical proposal, the integration of this environment into Integrative Curricular Components is suggested, supporting flipped classroom models, asynchronous learning, and project-based learning. It is concluded that the incorporation of this resource functions as an accessible and strategic technological solution, effectively contributing to student protagonism, curricular modernization, and the mitigation of academic retention. 2026-03-20T00:00:00Z