1.Colombia’s Cultural Heritage: Reverse engineering for the reconstruction of prehispanic metallurgy techniques
Abstract: New results based on principles of materials science and engineering arising from the application of a reverse engineering methodology on a number of metallic objects and fragments will be presented These artefacts have been recognized for many years as part of Colombia’s prehispanic archaeological heritage. The goal has been to reconstruct the metallurgical techniques used by prehispanic natives in the production of these objects.
The first part of the presentation will focus on the relevance of archaeometallurgical studies in Colombia, especially in the study of the material culture (objects, artefacts). This will be followed by a discussion of the reconstruction of prehispanic techniques. The understanding gained so far about the manufacture of metallic objects will be discussed from a materials engineering viewpoint and integrated with heritage studies and other disciplines such as archaeology, anthropology and economics.
The application of the reverse engineering methodology will be illustrated on world-famous objects from Colombia’s archaeological heritage, such as the gold Muisca Ceremonial Raft, the Depletion Guilding, and other objects made of platinum alloys.
Venue: Engineering Lecture Theatre (ELT)
Abstract: Heterogenous photocatalysis is a promising and ecofriendly technique towards hydrogen production, pollutant degradation and CO2 reduction. However, despite its high potential the implementation at industrial scale is still limited. In this presentation the fundamentals, applications and perspectives of photocatalysis for water splitting and wastewater treatment will be reviewed.
3. Engineering and Sustainability
Abstract: The world faces enormous challenges regarding the environmental protection and the sustainable development of our societies. In this presentation some ways by which engineers and citizens can contribute towards addressing these challenges will be highlighted. The importance of incorporating methodologies like Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) in the design of processes and products and some examples related with the Colombian context will be discussed.