UFRN creates online tool to estimate renewable hydrogen production from biogas

Researchers at the Environmental Technology Laboratory of the Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte (LabTam/UFRN) have developed BioCAL-H2, a free online calculator that allows for a preliminary estimate of renewable hydrogen production potential from biogas derived from various types of biomass. This initiative bridges the gap between scientific research and practical application by offering rural producers, companies, landfill managers, and researchers a tool to support the initial assessment of hydrogen projects prior to making industrial-scale investments.

From experimental research to planning new hydrogen projects

BioCAL-H2 was built upon approximately a decade of research conducted by LabTam on catalytic methane reforming, incorporating experimental data generated by the laboratory itself. To run a simulation, the user inputs the biomass type and biogas composition—specifically methane and carbon dioxide content—and selects reaction conditions, such as temperature and the type of catalyst. The platform then presents an estimate of the renewable hydrogen generation potential, enabling the comparison of different scenarios based on the catalysts experimentally studied by the team. According to Rodolfo Medeiros, a LabTam researcher and one of the tool's creators, the goal is to provide an initial reference point for producers and managers to assess how much hydrogen could be obtained from the waste generated by their operations.

Available for free—without the need for registration—on the LabTam website, the platform is set to receive new features, including cost estimates and economic feasibility analyses. Meanwhile, the laboratory's participation in the Brazilian Hydrogen Laboratory System (SisH₂-MCTI) reinforces the initiative's connection to the national strategy for hydrogen research, innovation, and technological development.

Access the calculator HERE