Brazilian Industry Research Articles

A location–transportation problem under demand uncertainty for a pharmaceutical network in Brazil

We study the integrated location–transportation problem under uncertain demand, addressing the case of a pharmaceutical logistics network in Brazil. We propose a mathematical model with multi-time scales to make decisions accordingly with their timing. The model considers practical features, such as fleet sizing, safety constraints in cargo transportation, and tax issues. We address uncertainty in decision-making by developing a robust counterpart and present solution methods based on Fix-and-Optimize heuristics. We perform computational experiments using real data from a partner company and evaluate the impact of uncertainty on the problem. The heuristics outperform the MIP model by reducing the average of logistics costs and taxes by 40%. Demand uncertainty and variability significantly influence the problem decisions. Also, the robust model reduces expected solution costs. Thus, these models and solution methods can support the decision-making process on location–transportation problems in Logistics Network Planning in contexts similar to the pharmaceutical industry in Brazil.

Analysis of the Furniture Industrial Panorama, in Brazil, in Relation to the Adoption of Industry 4.0 Technologies

The furniture industry is a traditional segment, with a global presence, and as in other markets and segments, globalization has contributed to creating an environment of fierce competition between small, medium and large companies. China, the European Union and the United States are the biggest producers and also the biggest consumers of furniture products. Brazil is also included in this market, but with lower production and consumption volumes. The objective of this study is to analyze panorama of the furniture industry in Brazil and abroad, in relation to the adoption of industry 4.0 technologies to foster new working conditions and productivity. In this work, authors opted for the format of reflective theoretical essay, based on the result of systematic review of literature, performed in Scopus, in February, 2023, employing keywords “Furniture manufacturing” and “Industry 4.0”, with any other restrictions. Only 47 articles were published in this timeline. Analyzing these articles was evidenced that main obstacles to the adoption of technologies I4.0 is related to the insufficient proofs of the advantages and benefits that these technologies may provide for furniture manufacturing process, lack of the awareness of the employees to enable internalization of knowledge about technologies of 4.0 industry. To accomplish this will be necessary to perform actions to establish collaborative networks, both internal and external, to validate the new organizational practices/ routines, and consolidate its adoption in the manufacturing environment. As conclusion of the study is possible to state that the lack of knowledge of I4.0 technologies and their benefits, by workforce and organizational managers also, lack of financing sources and of government policies to foster adoption of technologies I4.0 are among main obstacles to the adoption of the technologies of industry 4.0. Reducing the distance between universities and industries, investing in R&D, using already available and low-cost technologies and adopting proven and established production methods were also highlighted as premises for I4's technologies and that may to succeed in the furniture segment. I4.0 technologies show the potential to maximize productivity and profitability by reducing lead time, operating costs, increasing quality, flexibility of the operational process, in addition to differentiated design.

Production of Sustainable Aviation Fuels from Lignocellulosic Residues in Brazil through Hydrothermal Liquefaction: Techno-Economic and Environmental Assessments

Decarbonization of the aviation sector relies on deployment of sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) at commercial scale. Hydrothermal liquefaction (HTL) has been recognized as a promising technology to help supply the increasing projected SAF demand. High availability of agro-industrial residues, combined with a well-established biorefinery system, makes the sugarcane industry in Brazil a good option for HTL technology deployment. Moreover, challenges regarding the economic feasibility of SAF from HTL could be partially addressed by the RenovaBio policy, a market-driven incentive mechanism of carbon credits implemented in Brazil. This study investigated both the techno-economic and life cycle assessment of SAF production from sugarcane lignocellulosic residues, considering HTL integrated to a first-generation ethanol distillery and a HTL stand-alone facility. The evaluated scenarios showed great climate mitigation potential, reaching a reduction of up to 73–82% when compared to fossil jet fuel. The minimum fuel selling price of SAF at 15.4 USD/GJ indicated potential of economic competitiveness with fossil jet fuel in the best integrated scenario. The economic benefits obtained from carbon credits are not enough to enable feasibility of HTL in the stand-alone scenarios, even with carbon prices projected at 125 USD/tonne CO2-eq avoided.

A Multi-Criteria Decision-Making Model for Selecting a Maturity Model

This paper proposes a decision model for a maturity model choice problem via the multiple-criteria decision analysis method. The authors implemented the model in FITradeoff decision support system to select a project management maturity model for a Brazilian industry operating in the sector of distributing natural gas. FITradeoff is a flexible and interactive procedure of elicitation for multi-criteria additive models that requires only partial information from the decision maker (i.e., there is no need to elicit very detailed information from the decision maker, an approach that the decision maker can find laborious and tiring). The authors observed that the use of a multi-criteria approach imposes certain rigor and pattern on the decision process to select a maturity model in project management. Applying the model enabled comparison of information from the four maturity models and therefore selecting a project management maturity model based on the decision-maker preferences.

Innovation in Brazilian Industries: Analysis of Management Practices Using Fuzzy TOPSIS

This study examined the practices of innovation management used by Brazilian industries. A survey was carried out with specialists that assessed 27 practices (PR) proposed by ISO 56002, considering two types of firms: small and medium-sized industries (SMI) and large industries (LI). The methodological approach included Hierarchical Cluster Analysis to identify the similarities between the specialists and define levels of specialists, as well as Fuzzy TOPSIS and frequency and sensitivity analyses to examine their responses. PR1 (analysis of internal and external issues that impact innovation management) was deemed the best practice for LIs, whereas PR10 (adequate assessment of potential partnerships) was best evaluated for SMIs. The PR27 (periodic audits to identify opportunities for improvement) received the lowest rating from both LIs and SMIs. In general, SMIs in the Brazilian context have more severe deficiencies in terms of applying innovation management practices than LIs. A broad overview of the innovation practices adopted in the Brazilian industrial scenario is provided. The study’s findings may assist managers and policymakers to develop initiatives and actions to improve the capacity of Brazilian industries to innovate. This research can also support future studies aimed at better understanding specific practices related to the topic.

Emergent Research Themes on Sustainability in the Beef Cattle Industry in Brazil: An Integrative Literature Review

Brazil is one of the world’s biggest beef producers and its largest exporter. However, beef cattle ranching is a leading cause of deforestation and habitat conversion in the Brazilian Amazon, which challenges sustainable development. We adopted the triple bottom line (TBL) as a guiding theory of sustainability and assumed the necessity of a production system-specific approach. Based on an integrative literature analysis, we aimed to assess sustainability pillars in beef cattle production. The Web of Science, Scopus and Science Direct databases were searched for studies on mitigating the adverse impacts of beef cattle production before the COVID-19 pandemic outbreak. We found 108 references in these databases, 46 of which met the criteria for eligibility assessment, and ten studies were selected for textual cluster analysis and thematic synthesis. The review shows emergent research themes on sustainability in beef cattle production. It also elaborates a conceptual model of the sustainability pillars in the technique, science, and social aspects of the beef cattle sector that may guide the managerial and political strategies for the beef cattle supply chain in Brazil and other emerging markets. This study indicates that sustainable beef cattle development requires new digital technologies and ideas about sustainable supply chain management, which provides human, environmental, and animal welfare.

Plastic behaviour of clay materials for the manufacture of fast-drying red ceramics

AbstractFast drying (~60 min) is useful for optimizing production processes by increasing productivity and reducing costs and environmental impacts, especially in red ceramic industries in Brazil. However, suitable clays are necessary and, currently, studies focused on the plastic behaviour of clays with compositions suitable for extrusion, especially for fast drying, are scarce. Therefore, in this study, three different clays from the same mineral deposit were studied for producing clay-based structural products via fast drying. The clays were characterized according to their chemical, mineralogical and thermal properties, particle size, cation-exchange capacity, specific surface area and open pore volume distribution. Ten formulations were developed using a simplex-centroid mixture design of experiments and their plasticity index (PI) values were determined. The response surfaces of the formulations were evaluated according to their PI, while the formation characteristics were determined according to their extrusion workability factor values. Formulations F5 (50.0 wt.% yellow clay and 50.0 wt.% green clay) and F8 (66.6 wt.% yellow clay, 16.7 wt.% grey clay and 16.7 wt.% green clay; PI = 15.5–16.6%) displayed optimal extrusion properties, followed by formulations F7 (33.3 wt.% yellow clay, 33.3 wt.% grey clay and 33.3 wt.% green clay) and F10 (16.7 wt.% yellow clay, 16.7 wt.% grey clay and 66.6 wt.% green clay; PI = 13.8–14.2%), which are within acceptable extrusion index values. Thus, the chosen formulations have significant potential for use in the manufacture of fast-drying red ceramics.

Set of sustainability indicators for the dairy industry.

The Brazilian dairy industry is socially and economically relevant but requires care regarding the prevention of the environmental impact, and a set of indicators to evaluate the level of sustainability of such industries has not yet been yet defined and consolidated both in practice and in the literature. In this context, this study aims to select a set of sustainability indicators for small and medium-sized Brazilian dairy industries. The selection of the set of sustainability indicators was conducted using a top-down approach (based on the Global Reporting Initiative document) and a bottom-up approach (participatory process by questionnaire in the dairy industry). The questionnaire with a 5-point Likert scale of a general set of indicators, resulting from the top-down approach, was answered by 238 respondents linked to the dairy industry in Brazil to determine the importance of each indicator in this type of industry. The main results reveal that a set of 28 sustainability indicators (environmental = 13, social = 9, and economic = 6) was selected for use in small and medium-sized Brazilian dairy industries. This set of indicators fills the existing gaps in the literature about being specific for the small and medium-sized dairy industries in Brazil, mutually covers the dimensions of the triple bottom-line, applicable in multiple departments of the dairy industry, and the selection took place through a participatory process of professionals linked to the dairy industry.

Sapo-34 Obtained from Amazonian Flint Kaolin: Influence of Impurities of “Oxidized Fe/Ti” in Synthesis and Its Application in the Removal of Cationic Dye from Water

Non-processed kaolin (flint kaolin) from a mine located in the Capim area (Amazon region, northern Brazil), usually considered as waste, was selected as a source of silicon and aluminum in the synthesis of SAPO-34. This is a molecular sieve and cationic exchanger chosen for tests focusing on the removal of methylene blue in aqueous solutions, which is a cationic dye widely used by textile industries in Brazil. The results revealed that the SAPO-34 has been successfully synthesized with typical cubic morphology, good crystallinity (>90%), and thermal stability (~998 °C). Although the oxidized Fe/Ti impurities contained in the flint kaolin affect the degree of crystallinity of the zeolitic product, its adsorptive properties are not significantly affected, which demonstrates the excellent adsorption results (pH = 11; % removal > 90%). It proved to be an adsorbent with considerable adsorption capacity (9.83 mg·g−1). The pH test confirmed the acidic surface characteristics (pH solution 2–4; ↓ removal), and the kinetic model that best fitted the experimental data was pseudo-second-order, with R2 = 0.998 (kinetics controlled by chemisorption).

BECCS opportunities in Brazil: Comparison of pre and post-combustion capture in a typical sugarcane mill

In order to make feasible the efforts that would limit the rise of Earth's temperature to no more than 2 °C, profound changes are required in the energy systems. In this sense, BECCS are considered instrumental to attain possible negative emissions. This draws attention to the sugarcane industry in Brazil, where it is possible to produce fuel ethanol at a relative low cost and a large amount of relatively cheap biomass is available. This paper is part of a research that aims to study the combined production of liquid fuels and electricity, using sustainable sources of biomass and maximizing carbon capture. Two cases related to an innovative technology were evaluated and in both the capture is based on amine technology: pre-combustion capture of CO2 from the fuel gas derived from biomass gasification, and post-combustion capture from gas turbine exhaust gases. Information from the scientific literature was used in modelling the systems, as well as estimating energy penalties and costs associated with capturing, transporting and storing CO2. The results indicate technical feasibility of both capture options, but difficulties in setting the full integration of the power unit (BIG-CC) with the sugarcane mill and the CCS system, due to the high demand for thermal energy as low-pressure steam. The estimated CO2 abatement cost is in the range 60–71 €/tCO2 for pre-combustion capture, and 52–63 €/tCO2 in the case of post-combustion. Feasibility results are impacted by the scale of CO2 capture (0.82–1.44 MtCO2/year), particularly in the pre-combustion case, and the relatively high cost of electricity generation.

TOP ELECTRODE INVESTIGATION OF OPV MODULES BASED ON P3HT:PC[60]BM FABRICATED VIA ROLL-TO-ROLL PROCESS

Solar photovoltaic (PV) cells allow the direct conversion of sunlight into electricity without CO2 emission. Finding a way to cheaply utilize the vast amount of solar energy is one of the biggest challenges for this technology. The organic photovoltaic cells (OPV) are based on solution-processed photoactive polymers and can be fabricated via roll-to-roll (R2R) processes, which allow high production throughput with low costs. CSEM Brasil is building the foundations of future high-tech industries in Brazil and one of our key technology development areas is OPV modules production using R2R coating. In this work, polymer solar cells based on P3HT: PC[60]BM were prepared by R2R coating (electron transport, active and hole transport layers – ETL, AL and HTL) and by screen printing (top silver electrode). In order to save material and give more transparency of the OPV module were compared and evaluated the performance of two different suppliers of Ag paste (A and B) in three different top contact configurations, solid, grid and honeycomb. Additionally, were compared two different screen suppliers (I and II) for screen printing process and the Ag paste drying time studied. The comparisons were made with modules with an active area of 21.6 cm2 (6 stripes serially connected). Photovoltaic performance was evaluated in terms of Ag paste and screens suppliers, Ag pattern and drying time. Finally, modules were encapsulated in a R2R laminator using a flexible barrier film and evaluated in terms of lifetime.

Pasteurized milk quality in Brazil: a cross-sectional study over five years.

This research communication delineates the quality of pasteurized cow milk sold in Brazil from 2015 to 2020. A cross-sectional study was performed gathering 1749 samples, which were evaluated for microbiological and physicochemical parameters, including Salmonella spp., total and thermotolerant coliforms, freezing point, alkaline phosphatase and lactoperoxidase. The proportion of compliant and non-compliant samples was compared through the years and jurisdiction of the inspection services. Interactions between the design and response variables were assessed by log-linear analysis. Overall, a considerable non-conformity rate (12%) was found for at least one microbiological or physicochemical parameter. Post-pasteurization contamination by coliforms was the major challenge for dairy industries. Notably, the non-compliance rate for freezing point increased during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. In addition, the ability to comply was linked to the type of inspection service. Thus, it is suggested that the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic is affecting the dairy industries in Brazil, and we strengthen the need for more studies monitoring the quality of milk over the years, which could assist industries and regulatory agencies to ensure the compliance of pasteurized milk.

The Brazilian Revolution of 1930: The Legacy of Getúlio Vargas Revisited

The Brazilian Revolution of 1930: The Legacy of Getúlio Vargas Revisited

Use of Interrupted Case Studies to Teach Scientific Communication: Examples from the Effects of Mining on Water Resources in Brazil

The mining industry in Brazil, despite contributing to economic growth, is one of the human activities that negatively impacts the environment. This situation can be contextualized in discussions of several curricular chemistry topics. One way in which science, technology, society, and environmental issues can be discussed in classes is through case studies. This article reports on three interrupted case studies, based on research articles, which were developed and implemented in a Scientific Communication Course offered to first-year undergraduate Chemistry students at the University of São Paulo, Brazil. During two sessions of this course, students, divided in groups, developed hypotheses, chose sampling points and equipment for instrumental analyses, and evaluated data provided in the case studies. Results from a Descending Hierarchical Classification Analysis of oral presentations, performed on IRAMUTEQ software, and from a quiz containing 11 true or false statements (response rate of 79%) provide evidence for the effectiveness of the case studies for conceptual understanding of different topics in chemistry, such as heavy metals, sediments, and principles of instrumental chemical analysis, and for the development of communication and oral presentation skills.

EVALUATION OF THE APPLICATION OF SIX SIGMA IN THE FILLING PROCESS OF ADHESIVES IN A CHEMICAL INDUSTRY

In a context of high competitiveness due to the high technological innovations that are emerging and the search for process improvements with cost reductions, this paper presents a research aiming to evaluate the application of the Six Sigma methodology in an adhesive industry in Brazil, Grande São Paulo, in order to evaluate the possible reduction of filling losses by reducing variability. For this, the DMAIC method and the appropriate tools were used, such as Project Chart, Histogram, Pareto Chart, Flow Chart, Control Charts, Ishikawa Diagram, 5W2H and others. It was identified that currently the filling process of the products covered are not stable and for this reason it was not possible to analyze the process capacity. However, improvements have been proposed to the current issues identified in order to achieve stability so that process variability can be reduced by meeting customer requirements.

Do they really support "your freedom of choice"? FoPNL and the food industry in Brazil.

In 2020, Brazil approved the introduction of a new front-of-package nutrition labeling (FoPNL) in the format of a magnifying glass (MG) after years of discussion. There is currently a lack of understanding of the role of the food industry in that process. This study aimed to describe the corporate political activity (CPA) of the food industry and conflicts of interest situations, as they happened during the development and approval of a new FoPNL system in Brazil. We undertook bibliographical and documentary searches using material from food companies, trade associations and front groups involved in the regulatory process. We (1) collected information about the case study context, (2) collected data from documentary sources, and (3) prepared a synthesis of the results and a timeline of key events. During the FoPNL regulatory process in Brazil, the food industry opposed the introduction of warning labels, a model supported by health authorities and implemented with success in other countries in Latin America. The food industry rather promoted a traffic-light labeling system, known to be less effective at guiding individuals to make healthier food choices. Later in the process, when it was evident that its preferred model would not be used, and a MG would rather be introduced, the food industry argued for the use of a different version of this FoPNL model. We found that the food industry, all along the process, was directly involved in and influenced the development of the FoPNL, by providing technical support, advising and lobbying policymakers. The food industry also established relationships with a consumer non-governmental organization and nutrition professional societies. The food industry also produced and disseminated information supporting its position in order to influence public opinion and high-level decision makers, and used the legal system to delay the process. The FoPNL in Brazil is neither aligned with the recommendations of international health organizations nor with existing independent scientific evidence. The new FoPNL, as adopted in Brazil, reflects some of the preferences of the industry; it is likely that the influence of that sector during the legislative process was pivotal, even if its initial proposal was not adopted.

The Well-being of Brazilian Industry Workers on Returning to the Physical Workplace During the COVID-19 Pandemic.

Our aim was to assess the prevalence and predictors of well-being among Brazilian industry workers on returning to the physical workplace during the COVID-19 pandemic. Two thousand two hundred forty-one participants completed an online survey between October and November 2021. Well-being was assessed with the World Health Organization Well-being Index, and the questionnaire also addressed sociodemographic and occupational characteristics and the health of workers and their contacts. Associations were estimated with logistic regression models. The prevalence of adequate well-being was 63.15%. The predictors of poor well-being included being female, younger, working exclusively from home or on a hybrid model, having comorbid disorders, and living with someone with any comorbidity. The identification of vulnerable groups with poor well-being may help organizations to direct efforts to the unmet psychological needs of these employees and develop well-being programs during this transition.

Digital transformation in Brazilian industry: bridging theory and practice

Paper aims This paper aims to evaluate the digitalization scenario of Brazilian industry, as well as to propose a practical approach to its digital transformation. Originality No comparison is available that aims to understand the differences and gaps between theoretical research and the reality of digital transformation in Brazilian industries. Research method Based on three steps, namely: review and bibliographic analysis to identify the main aspects of digital transformation; content analysis of national reports to define the state of practice; comparison between the results of theory and practice. Main findings The results demonstrate an alignment between the aspects found in the scientific literature and the reports analyzed. The pillars of digital transformation are widely discussed in industrial reality. However, implementation gaps (and related opportunities) difficult the digital transformation of the Brazilian industry. Implications for theory and practice This paper introduces a proposition that unites theoretical aspects in a model that may be applied to enable digital transformation in the industry.

The relationship between learning orientation and new product development capability

AbstractThe objective of this paper is to analyze the mediating effect of new product development capability on the relationship between learning orientation and financial performance. The research was applied in SMEs that belong to the Personal Hygiene and Cosmetic Industry in Brazil. There are 226 cases in the sample and the method used to test the relations between the hypotheses was the Structural Equation Modeling. The results showed us that learning orientation positively influences financial performance; there is a significant positive relationship between learning orientation and new product development capability; new product development capability has a positive influence on the financial performance; and there is a partial mediating effect of the new product development capability on the relationship between learning orientation and financial performance.

Solar energy, an alternative for cost reduction in shops and industry in Brazil

Solar energy, an alternative for cost reduction in shops and industry in Brazil