Location question (India): Which fertilizer plant is noted for sourcing part of its hydrogen requirement from coke-oven gas?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: Rourkela (under SAIL)

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Hydrogen sources for ammonia vary by local infrastructure. In integrated steel-fertilizer complexes, coke-oven gas from steel operations can be a valuable hydrogen-rich stream. Historically in India, Rourkela—associated with the Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL)—is recognized for utilizing coke-oven gas to supplement hydrogen for fertilizer production.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • We are asked to identify the plant location known for using coke-oven gas as a hydrogen source.
  • Options include multiple Indian fertilizer/industrial sites under different organizations.
  • Historical context: integration between steelworks and ammonia units.


Concept / Approach:
Coke-oven gas contains a significant fraction of hydrogen formed during coal carbonization. Where a steel plant and a fertilizer unit are co-located or integrated, it is economical to recover and purify H2 from this stream. Rourkela’s steel complex provided such an opportunity, making it the best-known example in the options listed.


Step-by-Step Solution:
Associate coke-oven gas hydrogen recovery with an integrated steel site.Identify Rourkela as the steel hub under SAIL among the options.Select “Rourkela (under SAIL).”Recognize others (Barauni, Nangal, Talcher) follow different feedstock histories.


Verification / Alternative check:
Historical notes and training manuals cite Rourkela’s practice of H2 recovery from coke-oven gas for ammonia/fertilizer purposes.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Barauni/Nangal/Talcher: not the canonical examples for coke-oven gas hydrogen utilization.


Common Pitfalls:
Assuming all steel towns supplied hydrogen to fertilizer units; integration depended on specific plant histories and logistics.


Final Answer:
Rourkela (under SAIL)

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