Biogas upgrading to biomethane in Brazil: Networks, technologies, and industrial pathways

• In Brazil, biogas plants expanded from 2 (2003) to 755 (2021) and to >800 (2023). • Biogas output grew from 1.09 million to 2.3 billion Nm³/year (2003–2021); 2.9 billion in 2023. • Biomethane: 17 plants, 7 ANP-authorized; projected 547,481 Nm³/day in 2024. • ∼80 % of feedstock is MSW and sewage; co-location (“zero logistics”) predominates. • Upgrading tracks scale: PSA at small/medium sites; membranes at larger sites. Waste management is a critical global challenge for sustainability, requiring solutions that integrate efficient treatment, energy generation, and value recovery. This study analyzes the evolution of the biogas sector in Brazil, focusing on the integration of waste sources and industrial plants to produce biogas and biomethane. Using a scientometric approach, we analyzed 3289 peer-reviewed articles and 248 patent documents, to map knowledge production in Brazil on biogas and biomethane, identifying research themes, collaboration patterns, and technological focus in upgrading. We then integrated field evidence, industry datasets, and technical reports to characterize installed capacity, feedstocks, and the upgrading routes currently adopted to produce biomethane. Results show that the number of biogas plants in Brazil increased from 2 in 2003 to 755 in 2021, with annual production rising from 1.09 million Nm³ in 2003 to 2.3 billion Nm³ in 2021. In 2023, annual production reached approximately 2.9 billion Nm³. biomethane is obtained by upgrading biogas, whereby major contaminants are removed and its heating value increases. Seventeen biomethane plants were identified, with seven authorized by the National Petroleum Agency (ANP) and projected capacity of 547,481 Nm³ day⁻¹ in 2024. In Brazil, co-location of biogas plants with waste sources predominates, optimizing logistics and supporting decentralized energy solutions. Collaboration among universities, industry, utilities, and regulators can expand the use of biomethane in small and medium industries and reduce the volume of waste still disposed of in open dumpsites.