PREreview of The Importance of Hydrogen for Brazil: a source of clean energy and a path to the production of nitrogen fertilizers

Write a short summary of the research’s main findings and how this work has moved the field forward.

Hydrogen is the lightest chemical element in the periodic table, with a high calorific value, much higher than that of methane, gasoline, diesel, and methanol. Its combustion releases a large amount of energy and water as a product. The major part of the world’s production of hydrogen comes from natural gas, through Synthesis Gas production, which can also be produced from alternative renewable sources or even water. Synthesis gas is an intermediate product of great importance for the industry, as it is possible to produce hydrogen from it, but, among other products, ammonia is one of the most important products as is used mainly to produce fertilizers. This paper resume the importance of syngas and hydrogen, its ways of production, classifications, scientific production around the world in this field, and their relation to the current economical problems such as food shortages and energy crisis specifically in Brazil.

Major issues

• List significant concerns about the research, if there are any.

  Hydrogen is an important source of clean energy and has the potential to transform many sectors of the economy, including transportation, industry, and power generation. Brazil, with its abundant natural resources and strong agricultural sector, has the potential to become a major player in the hydrogen economy.

  One of the key applications of hydrogen is in the production of ammonia, which is a key ingredient in nitrogen-based fertilizers. Brazil is a major agricultural producer and exporter, and therefore, nitrogen-based fertilizers are critical for its economy. However, the current production of nitrogen fertilizers in Brazil is heavily reliant on fossil fuels, which not only contribute to greenhouse gas emissions but also make the country vulnerable to fluctuations in oil prices.

  By producing hydrogen from renewable sources such as solar and wind power, Brazil could reduce its dependence on fossil fuels and produce ammonia for fertilizer production in a more sustainable manner. This would not only reduce the carbon footprint of Brazilian agriculture but also create new opportunities for the country's renewable energy sector.

  Moreover, hydrogen can also be used as a clean fuel for transportation, which is a key sector in Brazil. As the world's second-largest producer of ethanol, Brazil has already demonstrated its commitment to alternative fuels. However, hydrogen fuel cell vehicles offer several advantages over electric vehicles, including longer range and faster refueling times. By investing in hydrogen infrastructure, Brazil could position itself as a leader in this emerging sector.

Minor issues

• List concerns that would improve the overall flow or clarity but are not critical to the understanding and conclusions of the research.

  In summary, hydrogen has the potential to play a critical role in Brazil's transition to a more sustainable economy. By leveraging its natural resources and expertise in agriculture and renewable energy, Brazil can become a major producer and consumer of clean hydrogen, with benefits for both its economy and the environment.

Competing interests

The author declares that they have no competing interests.