Technical and Economic Feasibility Study of Castor Bean Biorefinery

Pedro Henrique Cruz de Souza; Julia Gimenez Iervolino; Luiza Vasconcelos Santos; Artur Santos Bispo; Gustavo de Souza dos Santos; Leonardo Oliveira Santos de Santana; Fernando Luiz Pellegrini Pessoa

doi:10.34178/jbth.v9i4.605

Pedro Henrique Cruz de Souza
Julia Gimenez Iervolino
Luiza Vasconcelos Santos
Artur Santos Bispo
Gustavo de Souza dos Santos
Leonardo Oliveira Santos de Santana
Fernando Luiz Pellegrini Pessoa

DOI: https://doi.org/10.34178/jbth.v9i4.605

Keywords: Castor Bean, Northeast, Oil, Feasibility, Biomass

Abstract

This study presents a technical and economic feasibility analysis for the implementation of a biorefinery for the extraction and processing of castor oil (Ricinus communis L.) in Bahia, Brazil. Castor oil is an oilseed of great industrial importance, known for its resilience to adverse climatic conditions and its wide range of applications in the chemical, pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and energy sectors, particularly due to the presence of castor oil. Accordingly, this work is based on its potential as a sustainable alternative to fossil sources, the valorization of regional production chains, and the promotion of socioeconomic development in Brazil's semi-arid Northeast. Furthermore, the high added value of castor oil and the potential for full biomass utilization justify investments in well-structured biorefinery projects. Both qualitative and quantitative methods were used to determine the optimal location, with Irecê (Bahia) identified as a strategic site. The hot pressing technology was selected for its high yield and simplicity. Two production capacity scenarios were evaluated: a high-capacity scenario (150 t/day), which demonstrated excellent economic viability (NPV of R$ 148 million, IRR of 38%, and a payback period of 3 years), and a medium-capacity scenario (50 t/day), which yielded negative results (NPV of -R$ 19 million, IRR of 6%). It is concluded that the implementation of a large-scale biorefinery is viable and promising, provided it is supported by strategies to reduce market volatility and optimize operational costs, thereby contributing to the strengthening of the castor production chain and the sustainable development of the region.