I+D Tecnológico

Parameter estimation of harmonic loads connected to the electrical distribution network

Alexandra Yolanis Nuñez — 2025-08-22

The increasing amount of nonlinear loads in industrial electrical distribution systems has generated harmonic loads that affect power quality. In this study, a Weighted Least Squares based WLS algorithm has been developed for the location and identification of harmonic load parameters. While employing the IP following the Interior Point or IP method to solve the optimization, real models validated the accuracy of the algorithm. With analysis in additional case studies, the algorithm has demonstrated high accuracy in parameter estimation. This allowed the best modeling of loads for understanding the electrical behavior of the industry. Even a poor estimation of one or more of the initial points has mainly affected the efficiency and convergence of our algorithm.

Theoretical analysis of the vulnerability and mitigation of flexible pavements in the face of climate change in Panama

Gabriel Jesús Montúfar Chiriboga — 2025-08-21

Climate change poses a significant challenge to road infrastructure, particularly for flexible pavements in tropical countries like Panama. Adverse effects of climate change, such as rising temperatures and intensified rainfall, threaten the durability and performance of these vital structures. This study aims to assess the vulnerability of flexible pavements in Panama to climate change and propose mitigation strategies to enhance their resilience and extend their service life. A comprehensive literature review and a detailed theoretical analysis of the phenomena involved were conducted, including viscoelasticity and thermal fatigue models. Previous studies on the impact of climate change on flexible pavements were examined, and mitigation strategies, such as the use of modified materials and advanced drainage technologies, were analysed. The analysis revealed that flexible pavements in Panama are particularly vulnerable to increased temperatures and intense rainfall. The use of polymer modifiers in asphalt mixtures and the implementation of advanced drainage systems were identified as effective strategies to improve pavement resilience. It is concluded that adapting current flexible pavement designs is crucial to address the challenges of climate change in Panama. The implementation of customized mitigation strategies for the different regions of the country and the conduct of empirical studies to validate the proposed theoretical models are recommended.

Impact of sustainable business practices on economic profitability and corporate reputation: a review of current literature

Alexandra Ghimell Castrellón-Quiroz — 2025-08-20

The preparation of reports and the measurement of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) present a challenge, as there are numerous approaches and indicators that can be used. The main objective is to demonstrate that CSR practices have a positive impact on profitability and corporate reputation, encouraging organizations to implement these strategies. It also seeks to identify useful metrics to measure such impact, given the lack of consensus on the indicators used to evaluate CSR. The methodology followed was as follows: identification of the field of study and the period to be analyzed, selection of information sources, execution of the search and refinement of results, and analysis of the findings. Two inclusion criteria were also applied: (1) the study conducted empirical research to examine the relationship between two or more variables, and (2) it explored the relationship between variables such as sustainable practices, profitability, and reputation. Eighty-three percent of the reviewed articles report a positive relationship between CSR and financial profitability, while only 7% indicate negative results. Sustainable practices generate direct benefits, such as greater resource efficiency, and indirect benefits, such as improved corporate reputation. Return on Assets (ROA) and Return on Equity (ROE) were the most commonly used financial metrics to assess this impact. However, a lack of uniformity in CSR measurement methods was noted, making comparisons across studies challenging. Additionally, greenwashing (misleading sustainability practices) can undermine trust in responsible initiatives.

Implementation of photovoltaic systems to cover energy demand in Panamanian homes

Alexzandra Castrellón — 2025-08-18

Growing concern about climate change and the need to reduce dependence on fossil fuels has prompted many countries to seek renewable alternatives for electricity generation. In this context, photovoltaic energy emerges as a viable and accessible solution, allowing residential and industrial consumers to generate their own energy and inject the surplus into the grid. In Panama, the information available on energy consumption and PV systems installed at the residential level is scarce and inaccurate. Therefore, this study seeks to analyze the potential of implementing solar panels in single-family residences in Panama. By way of context, a literature review of previous studies that have evaluated the impact of these systems and the rebound effect in various geographic and socioeconomic contexts is presented. A survey was applied to 101 households to collect information on consumption and user habits. In addition, energy audits and the design of the photovoltaic systems of three representative residences at each of the simple low voltage tariffs were carried out. It was shown that there is a high interest among households to adopt solar energy and that the impact of the rebound effect must be taken into account in the design of the systems. However, there are barriers such as lack of knowledge about the technology. The study showed that the implementation of photovoltaic systems has a significant potential to reduce grid electricity consumption.

Español

Sara Sofía Campos Montes — 2025-08-11

Panama's carbon footprint is an important topic when we talk about climate change and sustainability. This study looks at the CO₂ emissions from traditional vehicles and stoves, and how switching to electric options could make a difference. Our goal is to understand the emissions from these two areas and the potential benefits of going electric. We collected data on vehicle and stove usage at Building #1 of the Technological University of Panama, Victor Levi Sasso campus. Using a mathematical model, we estimated the CO₂ emissions from the vehicles used by staff and students, as well as from the kitchens. We also gathered information from reliable sources to calculate the carbon footprint of both types of technologies. Our findings show that traditional vehicles produce more CO₂ than electric ones, which highlights the benefits of moving towards electric transportation. However, we found that electric stoves could generate more CO₂ than gas ones, indicating that switching to electric stoves might not always be the best choice for reducing emissions right now. Overall, adopting electric vehicles is a great way for Panama to lower CO₂ emissions, but switching to electric cookstoves may not be the best move at this time.