loading page

Electrochemical NO3- Capture & Conversion from Agricultural Runoff: A Technoeconomic & Global Warming Potential Analysis
  • Sharmila Samaroo,
  • David Hickey
Sharmila Samaroo
Michigan State University

Corresponding Author:samaroos@msu.edu

Author Profile
David Hickey
Michigan State University
Author Profile

Abstract

Nitrates from agricultural wastewater are harmful to human health and result in eutrophication. Several emerging electrochemical technologies have been developed independently to enable efficient recovery and recycling of nitrate waste; however, it remains unclear whether the implementation of such combined technologies can be economically viable. Herein, we perform a technoeconomic and global warming potential analysis on several hypothetical nitrate capture and conversion (NCC) systems for the recovery of nitrates from agricultural wastewater and conversion of nitrate to ammonia. The energy efficient technologies incorporated include: electrodialysis for nitrate separation, electrocatalysis for ambient ammonia production, and agrophotovoltaics as a clean energy source. Our technoeconomic analysis reveals that despite advancements in nitrate separation and conversion, capital investments for system installation cannot be recovered by the financial benefit of on-site fertilizer production. Our analysis highlights the necessity of government intervention to promote nitrate abatement technologies to ensure environmental compliance and protect public health.
14 Jul 2022Submitted to AIChE Journal
15 Jul 2022Submission Checks Completed
15 Jul 2022Assigned to Editor
17 Jul 2022Reviewer(s) Assigned
24 Aug 2022Editorial Decision: Revise Major
05 Oct 20221st Revision Received
05 Oct 2022Submission Checks Completed
05 Oct 2022Assigned to Editor
12 Oct 2022Reviewer(s) Assigned
06 Nov 2022Review(s) Completed, Editorial Evaluation Pending
14 Nov 2022Editorial Decision: Accept