Work

N2O as a Reactant Rather Than Pollutant at Wastewater Treatment Plants: Life Cycle Assessment and Technoeconomic Analysis of N2O-to-Phenol

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: N2O emissions-reducing technologies are essential to reduce wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. In this study, we perform a life cycle assessment (LCA) and technoeconomic analysis (TEA) of a technology that intentionally produces N2O from WWTP N and uses this gas as an oxidant in the production of phenol and co-product N2. We compare the cost and sustainability of producing phenol and N2 with this technology and via conventional routes (cumene-to-phenol, cryogenic distillation, and pressure swing absorption to N2). Depending on the co-product allocation method, the median cumulative energy demand of the phenol produced from WWTP nitrogen is 30% to 50% higher than phenol from the cumene process, while the global warming potential of phenol produced via this pathway ranges from 10% lower to 40% higher than conventional routes to this chemical. However, depending on the WWTP size, level of N2O recovery, and market price of feedstocks and products, producing phenol at WWTP with this technology can produce a positive internal rate of return. We conclude that this technology could be applicable for large-scale WWTPs, but technological advancements are needed.

Source: ACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering

DOI: 10.1021/acssuschemeng.6c01008

Authors: Chayse M. Lavallais, Justin Notestein, George Wells, Jennifer B. Dunn

Institution: Northwestern University

Language: English

Topic: Wastewater Treatment and Nitrogen Removal

Subfield: Pollution

Field: Environmental Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Responsible consumption and production, Climate action, Clean water and sanitation, Affordable and clean energy

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,500