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(Reference retrieved automatically from Web of Science through information on FAPESP grant and its corresponding number as mentioned in the publication by the authors.)

Implications of stillage land disposal: A critical review on the impacts of fertigation

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Author(s):
Fuess, Lucas Tadeu [1] ; Garcia, Marcelo Loureiro [2]
Total Authors: 2
Affiliation:
[1] Univ Sao Paulo, Sao Carlos Sch Engn EESC, Lab Biol Proc, BR-13563120 Sao Carlos, SP - Brazil
[2] UNESP Univ Estadual Paulista, Inst Geosci & Exact Sci, BR-13506900 Rio Claro, SP - Brazil
Total Affiliations: 2
Document type: Review article
Source: Journal of Environmental Management; v. 145, p. 210-229, DEC 1 2014.
Web of Science Citations: 56
Abstract

Stillage is the main wastewater from ethanol production, generated specifically in the step of distillation. Regardless the feedstock, stillage contains high concentrations of organic matter, potassium and sulfates, as well as acidic and corrosive characteristics. Currently almost the entire volume of stillage generated in Brazilian distilleries is directed to the fertigation of sugarcane fields, due to its fertilizer character. However, the polluting potential of stillage characterizes its land disposal as problematic, considering probable negative impacts on the soil structure and water resources in case of excessive dosages. Since the literature lacks critical content describing clearly the cons related to the reuse of stillage in agriculture in the long-term, this review aimed to assess the real polluting potential of stillage, and the implications of its land disposal and/or discharge into water bodies. Evidence from the literature indicate that the main obstacles to reuse stillage in natura include risks of soil salinization; clogging of pores, reduction in the microbial activity and the significant depletion of dissolved oxygen concentrations in water bodies; contamination per nitrates and eutrophication; soil structure destabilization due to high concentrations of potassium and sodium; and, possible acidification of soil and water resources, considering the low pH of stillage (similar to 4,5). Toxic metals, such as cadmium, lead, copper, chromium and nickel, were also identified in concentrations above the recommended limits in stillage samples, increasing risks to human health (e.g. carcinogenic potential) and to crops (e.g. productivity loss). In short, although some studies report benefits from the land application of stillage, its treatment prior to disposal is essential to make fertigation an environmentally suitable practice. (C) 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved. (AU)

FAPESP's process: 10/04101-8 - Assessment of the energy recovery capacity in anaerobic reactors applied to the treatment of residues with high organic concentration
Grantee:Lucas Tadeu Fuess
Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Master