Effective emission management in the fertiliser industry

Fertiliser production is pivotal in meeting the global food demand yet presents the inherent challenge of managing emissions harmful to the planet and human health. These emissions, consisting of various gases and particles, pose risks to human health and the environment and are increasingly subject to stringent environmental regulations.

In this context, the role of advanced gas treatment technologies becomes crucial. As specialists, we will demonstrate how Tecnium’s innovative solutions help minimise the environmental impact of fertiliser production, ensuring cleaner and compliant operations.

We will address the specific gas scrubbing technologies we offer, highlighting their applicability and benefits in the fertiliser sector.

This approach underscores the technical relevance of our solutions and also establishes a framework to discuss how these technologies can assist companies in improving aspects such as environmental sustainability and operational efficiency.

Table of contents

Casaquemada 2 - Tecnium

Environmental and health effects

Emissions from fertiliser production include compounds such as ammonia, nitrogen oxides, and sulphur dioxide, among others.

These compounds contribute to severe environmental issues, such as acid rain, eutrophication of water bodies, and the formation of photochemical smog.

Prolonged exposure to these pollutants can lead to respiratory issues, eye irritation, and other health conditions.

Impact and regulations of emissions in fertiliser production

Fertiliser production is a key industrial activity that drives modern agriculture; however, it is also a significant source of pollutant emissions.

These emissions are characterised by a complex mixture of gases and particles that can adversely affect both the environment and public health.

Regulatory framework

Globally, fertiliser production is regulated by a series of norms that aim to minimise the environmental impact of these emissions.

For instance, in the European Union, the Industrial Emissions Directive (IED) sets strict limits on emissions of the most harmful compounds.

These regulations compel production plants to adopt the best available techniques (BAT) for controlling their emissions.

The need for effective solutions

Given this backdrop, the development, and implementation of effective emission control technologies are crucial.

Companies in the sector must not only comply with regulations to avoid penalties but also play a proactive role in protecting the environment and public health.

Our solutions provide an effective and reliable response, tailored to the specific needs of this industry and current regulatory compliance.

This context lays the groundwork for understanding the relevance and urgency of implementing advanced technologies in gas treatment. Next, we will explore in detail the solutions that Tecnium offers to tackle these challenges.

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Specific applications of our gas scrubbing technologies for fertiliser production

Tecnium’s gas scrubbing technologies are designed to meet the demanding conditions of fertiliser production, offering effective solutions for capturing and treating contaminants. Below, we detail how these technologies are applied in the production of various types of fertilisers:

Gas scrubbing in superphosphates

Single Superphosphate (SSP) and Triple Superphosphate (TSP): Significant emissions of hydrofluoric acid and fine dust are generated during the production of SSP and TSP.

Tecnium’s technologies, such as scrubbing towers, are specially adapted to treat these pollutants. Using aqueous solutions, the scrubbing towers neutralise acidic gases and capture dust, ensuring emissions comply with the most stringent environmental standards.

Gas treatment technologies
Fertiberia MAP production 1 - Tecnium

Gas scrubbing in ammoniacal fertilisers

Diammonium Phosphate (DAP) and Monoammonium Phosphate (MAP): These ammoniacal fertilisers release ammonia and dusts during their manufacture.

Tecnium employs cyclones and multi-venturis for pre-treating these emission streams, followed by scrubbing towers that efficiently remove residual ammonia and other harmful gases. This combination ensures an effective reduction of emissions and enhanced operational safety.

Gas scrubbing in complex fertilisers

NPK fertilisers and Urea Plants: The production of NPK fertilisers and urea involves the emission of various pollutants, including nitrogen oxides and carbon dioxide.

Tecnium offers solutions that combine venturis and scrubbing tower systems to optimise the capture and neutralisation of these gases. The specific design of these technologies allows for adaptability to variations in gas composition, ensuring consistent efficiency under diverse operating conditions.

Commercial and environmental benefits of Tecnium’s solutions

Tecnium’s gas scrubbing technologies comply with regulatory demands while offering significant commercial and environmental advantages. Implementing these solutions brings a series of benefits that strengthen companies’ market positions within the fertiliser industry. 

Dust Elimination - Tecnium

Using advanced gas scrubbing technologies allows fertiliser production plants to operate more efficiently by reducing the pollutant load from gaseous effluents, minimising operational disruptions due to frequent maintenance and compliance issues. Additionally, recycling certain by-products from gas scrubbing processes can provide an extra revenue stream for plants, offering an attractive return on investment.

Moreover, our technologies ensure that fertiliser production operations comply with current environmental laws and regulations, helping companies avoid fines and penalties while enhancing their corporate image in terms of sustainability. 

If you are considering improving your emission control systems, Tecnium offers personalised consultations to demonstrate how our solutions can be tailored to your specific needs without any issues. We invite interested parties to contact us through the form on our website to obtain all the necessary information.

Contact information

Tecnium has a network of branch offices and partners that covers the needs of our costumers worldwide. Please contact us to know your local partner.

HEAD OFFICE:

F.Casablancas, 24 – 08243 MANRESA (Barcelona)
Tel: +34938748480
Fax: +34938757668
e-mail: [email protected]

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How can we help you?

Tell us about your application, and we will advise you the most optimal solution to solve your needs of gas treatment, odor control and storage and pumping of corrosive fluids