It is presents the characterization of the clays from the algodonal formation and the mechanical properties of the products manufactured in brickyard “Hora”, located in Ocaña, Norte de Santander, Colombia.Tests of scanning electron microscopy, thermal gravimetric analysis, differential scanning calorimetry, initial rate of absorption, 24-hour immersion, compressive strength, and modulus of rupture were performed. The results indicate that the clay contains a considerable amount of silico-aluminate, while the products have low mechanical strength and high percentage of water absorption. The clays used present difficulty in the process of shaping and compacting the products. None of the samples comply with the values established in the standard and do not allow their use as non-structural masonry products for interior or exterior use.

In this article, the design of a new model of transtibial prostheses will be shown, because there is a need to create a mechanism that simulates the anatomical behavior of the tibia-peroneal-astragaline joint, since existing prostheses continue to present disagreements in their Design, functionality, comfort and aesthetics. In the first part, the term amputation, its causes and indexes in Colombia are introduced, then everything related to transtibial prostheses, from its concept to the current confusion, then the research methodology used in this project, describing step by step the creation of the prototype, followed by a brief comparison of the proposed prosthetic and anatomical foot, finally the conclusion and discussion En este artículo, se expondrá el diseño de un nuevo modelo de prótesis transtibial, debido a que surge la necesidad de crear un mecanismo que simule el comportamiento anatómico de la articulación tibio-peroneo-astragalina, puesto que las prótesis existentes siguen presentado inconformidades en su diseño, funcionalidad, confort y estética. En la primera parte se introduce el término de amputación, sus causas e índices en Colombia, posteriormente todo lo relacionado con prótesis transtibial, desde su concepto hasta el desconcierto actual, luego la metodología de investigación utilizada en este proyecto, describiendo paso a paso la creación del prototipo, seguido de una breve comparación del pie protésico propuesto y el anatómico, finalmente la conclusión y discusión.

This study proposes a sustainable Innovation Management Model (MGI) for the plantain agroindustrial chain, applied to the Quindío region of Colombia. A mixed-methods approach was employed, incorporating various techniques, including a systematic literature review using the Scopus database, which analyzed 95 documents through the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) framework. The identification and prioritization of relevant variables, along with the validation of the proposed model, were also conducted through the use of three questionnaires, supplemented by relevance and congruence indices. The analysis identified 53 variables for the entry stage, 36 for the transformation stage, and 31 for the exit stage. The findings revealed significant gaps within the agroindustrial chain, particularly in areas such as leadership, strategic management, and resilience among key stakeholders. The MGI, as prioritized by stakeholders, provides a framework that integrates variables and information flows, facilitating the development of new open innovation challenges. These challenges engage not only seekers—entities that require innovation—but also solvers—organizations that offer solutions. The implementation of this model will require supportive public policies, projects, and web platforms, such as Innocentive/Wazoku, Ninesigma, Ruta N, Yet2.com, Itonics, and Ennomotive, which, with the aid of artificial intelligence, can connect innovation supply and demand through open challenges.

Urbanization and population growth have heightened the need for sustainable, efficient building materials that combine acoustic and thermal insulation with environmental and economic sustainability. Sandwich composite panels have gained attention as versatile solutions, offering lightweight structures, high strength, and adaptability in construction applications. This study evaluates manual, semi-automatic, and automatic production methods, selecting the automatic process for its efficiency, precision, and suitability for large-scale production. Extensive characterization techniques, including field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), Differential Thermogravimetry (DTG), Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), and flammability tests, were employed to evaluate the morphological, thermal, acoustic, and fire-resistant properties of the panels. The P200 sample, produced automatically, demonstrated high acoustic absorption in the mid–high frequencies (2000–4000 Hz), strong interlayer adhesion, and low thermal conductivity (2.75 W/mK), making it effective for insulation applications. The flammability tests confirmed compliance with EPA 1030 standards, with a low flame propagation rate (1.55 mm/s). The TGA-DTG and DSC analyses revealed the thermal stability of the panel’s components, with distinct degradation stages being observed for the polyurethane core and non-woven textile layers. The FE-SEM analysis revealed a compact and homogeneous structure with strong adhesion between the core and textile layers. These results highlight the potential of sandwich composites as eco-friendly, high-performance materials for modern construction.

This paper is based on the undergraduate project entitled “Procedure Manual for measuring thermal comfort in medical clothing” which developed the method for measuring thermal comfort. International standards such as ASTM F168 and ISO 11092 were chosen as the basis due to the lack of regulations in Colombia; from the guidelines in the standards a procedure for measuring thermal comfort through a hot plate apparatus was developed by means of parameters of temperature, humidity, and air velocity. The purpose of this paper is to define the steps needed to follow when developing a procedure for measuring thermal comfort. A brief explanation of the parameters and variables measured and of the procedure itself is also included. The final result is a method divided into five parts: 1 preparing materials, 2, 3, and 4 the main phases for measuring: thermal resistance, evaporation resistance, permeability index, heat loss, and 5 determining characteristics and interpreting results. This paper provides a significant contribution not only for the method for measuring thermal comfort but also for the Hot Plate Apparatus built for first time in Colombia which was necessary to take the corresponding measures.