USP advances in the production of renewable hydrogen from ethanol with a pioneering experimental station

The University of São Paulo (USP) has taken a significant step towards the future of clean energy by starting testing the world’s first experimental station dedicated to the production of renewable hydrogen from ethanol . Led by the Center for Research and Innovation in Greenhouse Gases (RCGI) , the project represents a strategic innovation in the transition to a low-carbon economy and in taking advantage of Brazil’s established ethanol infrastructure.

With an investment of R$50 million , the pilot plant, located at Cidade Universitária, is part of a consortium of renowned institutions and companies, including Shell Brasil, Raízen, Hytron, Senai Cetiqt, Toyota, Hyundai, Marcopolo and EMTU . The main objective is to demonstrate the viability of ethanol as a sustainable vector for hydrogen production , promoting its application in transportation and industry.

Innovation and impact on sustainable mobility

The experimental station has the capacity to produce 100 kilograms of hydrogen per day , enough to power three buses and two light vehicles powered by fuel cells, including the Toyota Mirai and Hyundai Nexo models. During this testing phase, the conversion rate of ethanol into hydrogen , consumption rates and fuel efficiency in the vehicles will be evaluated.

The production process occurs through steam reforming of ethanol , a technology in which ethanol reacts with water at high temperatures to release hydrogen. This method stands out for its efficiency and potential for reducing carbon emissions, as the CO2 generated in the process can be offset by the cultivation of sugarcane , making the cycle more sustainable.

Perspectives and the future of renewable hydrogen in Brazil

In addition to sustainable mobility, the hydrogen produced at the experimental plant could boost industrial sectors with high levels of emissions, such as steel, cement, chemical and petrochemical industries . The project also paves the way for the viability of sustainable fertilizers , reinforcing the competitiveness of Brazilian agribusiness.

USP's rector, Carlos Gilberto Carlotti Junior , reinforces the importance of the university's role in the development of innovative technologies: "Brazil needs to position itself as a leader in the energy transition. Academic research must generate knowledge that can be industrialized and transformed into concrete solutions for society."

With this initiative, USP not only places Brazil at the forefront of research into renewable hydrogen , but also opens up new opportunities for the country to consolidate its position as a global reference in clean and sustainable energy .