Manufacture of fertilizers and nitrogen compounds

isic code 2012 covers the manufacture of fertilizers and nitrogen compounds, a critical industry that plays a vital role in supporting global food production. Fertilizers are essential inputs for modern agriculture, helping to enhance soil fertility and boost crop yields. This industry's importance extends across various sectors, from farming and food processing to international trade and economic development.

The manufacture of fertilizers and nitrogen compounds typically involves several key production steps. This includes the extraction and processing of raw materials such as natural gas, ammonia, and phosphate rock, followed by the chemical synthesis of various fertilizer compounds. Common production techniques include the Haber process for ammonia synthesis, as well as the conversion of ammonia into urea, nitric acid, and other nitrogen-based fertilizers.

The main inputs required for the manufacture of fertilizers and nitrogen compounds include natural gas, ammonia, phosphate rock, and other mineral resources. Additionally, this industry relies on specialized production equipment, such as chemical reactors, distillation columns, and packaging machinery. The availability and cost of these raw materials and capital goods can significantly impact the industry's overall productivity and competitiveness.

The primary outputs of the fertilizer and nitrogen compounds industry are a diverse range of fertilizer products, including 2015 Manufacture of fertilizers and nitrogen compounds, 2021 Manufacture of pesticides and other agrochemical products, and 2022 Manufacture of paints, varnishes and similar coatings, printing ink and mastics. These outputs are essential inputs for various downstream industries, particularly the 0111 (Growing of cereals (except rice), legumes and oil seeds), 0113 Growing of vegetables and melons, roots and tubers, and 0114 Growing of sugar cane sectors.