Conceptual Design of an Energy-Cane Biorefinery for Hydrogen Production from Vinasse

• Grant number: 25/24065-1
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: March 01, 2026
• End date: February 28, 2027
• Field of knowledge: Engineering - Chemical Engineering - Chemical Process Industries
• Principal Investigator: Adriano Pinto Mariano
• Grantee: Beatriz de Matos Bonicontro Ambrosio
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Engenharia Química (FEQ). Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP). Campinas , SP, Brazil

Abstract

The growing need to expand the use of sustainable energy sources has driven the development of innovative routes for diversifying the energy matrix, such as green hydrogen production. In this context, energy cane biorefineries emerge as a promising field for developing new pathways based on sugarcane processing by-products. Among these, vinasse - generated in large volumes within the sugar-ethanol industry - stands out as a relevant alternative and has been investigated for green hydrogen production. This undergraduate research project aims to evaluate the feasibility of producing H¿ from this by-product through a techno-economic and environmental analysis of the process, which will be based on energy cane vinasse, in order to discuss the integration of green hydrogen into the product portfolio of this industry. To this end, a literature review will be conducted to identify existing process simulations and their operational parameters, as well as future market trends related to green hydrogen. Subsequently, a process simulation for biogas production from vinasse and its conversion into H¿ will be developed using Aspen Plus®. Based on this simulation, an economic analysis will be carried out considering investment (CAPEX) and operational (OPEX) costs, along with hydrogen price scenarios, to calculate indicators such as the internal rate of return (IRR) and net present value (NPV). In parallel, a life cycle assessment (LCA) will be conducted to estimate the carbon emissions associated with the process and compare them with conventional production routes. Thus, the ultimate goal of this work is to assess the feasibility of a conceptual energy cane biorefinery project for green hydrogen production from vinasse, contributing to technological diversification and strengthening the strategic role of the sugar-energy sector in the energy transition. (AU)