Assessing the energy load and environmental footprint of potash fertilizer production in Iran

The goal of this research was to analyze the energy and environmental impact of KCL and K2SO4 production and provide recommendations for enhancing energy efficiency and environmental practices. Data was collected through face-to-face interviews at two potash plants and the CML methodology was employed to assess impact categories. Inventory data for production inputs were sourced from the Ecoinvent, BUWAL 250, and LCA Food DK databases within the Simapro 8.03.14 software. The results showed that the production of one ton of K2O as KCL and K2SO4, required 7080.82 and 15691.5 MJ, respectively. Electricity accounted for 52.96% of energy input in KCL production, whereas fuel oil constituted 38.39% in K2SO4 production. Energy ratios, energy productivity and specific energy for K2SO4 was 0.40, 0.06 kgMJ-1, and 15.6 MJkg-1, while corresponding indices for KCL were 0.90, 0.14 kgMJ-1 and 7.08 MJkg-1, respectively. In KCL production, electricity had eight impact categories, while the use of KCL as a raw material in K2SO4 production had significant effects on seven impact categories. Considering the vast and unoccupied space available in Iran's great desert, where the KCL plant is situated, the installation of a photovoltaic power station near the plant could greatly enhance energy efficiency and reduce emissions.