Avaliação das tecnologias de geração de hidrogênio visando à produção de fertilizantes nitrogenados no cenário brasileiro

The guarantee of food supply, in face of population growth, depends on the use of fertilizers, especially nitrogenates, which are essential to increase agricultural productivity. In Brazil, where much of the soil has high acidity, fertilizers are even morecrucial, with nitrogen being a vital macronutrient for crop growth. This study addresses the classification and production of nitrogen fertilizers, in addition to a comparative study of current forms of hydrogen production, essential input for the production of nitrogenates. Aiming to meet production demand and environmental goals, the research analyzes methods such as electrolysis and anaerobic digestion to find sustainable solutions with high performance in production. Electrolysis, although efficient, faces challenges on an industrial scale due to high water demand. Alternatives such as the use of wastewater and groundwater are explored, and vinasse being composed mostly of water has been studied as a sustainable option. In the anaerobic digestion process, the main challenge is to find the parameters configuration and control of them in order to maximize hydrogen generation. Thus, the biological process, being more sustainable and promoting the circular economy, appears as a promising technique for generating nitrogen fertilizers. Through literature studies it was possible to identify that parameter such as pH between 4.5 and 5.5, organic loading rate of 80 to 90 g COD/Ld, and the use of co-substrates favor hydrogen generation.