Addressing the Gap in the Carbon Capture Value Chain: A Study on LCO2 Handling and Storage

As the maritime industry continues to navigate the challenges of decarbonization, shipboard carbon capture technologies have emerged as a potential mid-term solution. However, one of the key considerations in operationalizing these technologies is addressing the offloading of captured CO2. The Global Centre for Maritime Decarbonisation (GCMD) has conducted a 9-month study to address this gap in the carbon capture value chain, focusing on the handling and storage of liquefied CO2 (LCO2).

The study, which examines the safe offloading of LCO2 to appropriate infrastructure, considers the existing space constraints at ports and terminals. Researchers have determined that captured CO2 in its liquefied form is likely the most efficient and cost-effective option for onboard storage and transport. The study shortlisted four concepts covering key offloading modalities:

Key Offloading Modalities

The study identified four primary methods for offloading LCO2:

• Ship-to-Ship (STS) Transfer: This method involves transferring LCO2 from one ship to another, which can be particularly useful in scenarios where direct shore access is limited.
• Ship-to-Shore (STS) Transfer: This modality focuses on transferring LCO2 directly from the ship to shore-based facilities, which requires robust infrastructure at ports.
• Barge-based Transfer: Utilizing barges for LCO2 offloading can provide flexibility, especially in congested ports or where fixed infrastructure is not available.
• Truck-based Transfer: This method involves offloading LCO2 onto trucks for further transport, offering a versatile solution for smaller quantities or for distribution to various locations.

Technical Parameters and Additional Data

The study considered several technical parameters and additional data to ensure the feasibility and safety of LCO2 handling and storage:

• LCO2 Storage Capacity: Ranging from 1,000 to 5,000 tons.
• Offloading Rates: Between 100 to 500 tons per hour.
• Storage Tank Design: Cylindrical or spherical tanks with a diameter of 10 to 20 meters.
• Energy Consumption: 1 to 5 MW for LCO2 offloading.
• Emissions: 0.1 to 1.0 kg CO2 per ton of LCO2 offloaded.
• Safety Risks: Including explosion, fire, and asphyxiation hazards associated with LCO2 handling.

Impact on the Maritime Industry

The study’s findings have significant implications for the maritime industry, particularly in terms of:

• Infrastructure Development: Ports and terminals will need to invest in LCO2 handling and storage facilities to accommodate the new requirements.
• Regulatory Frameworks: Governments and regulatory bodies will need to establish competency standards and regulation regimes for LCO2 offloading to ensure safety and compliance.
• Operational Procedures: Shipping lines and terminal operators will need to develop new procedures for LCO2 handling and storage to integrate these technologies effectively.

Environmental Impact

The study’s focus on LCO2 handling and storage has a positive environmental impact, as it enables the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions from international shipping. However, the study also highlights the need for careful consideration of safety risks and environmental impacts associated with LCO2 handling and storage.

Summary

The GCMD study has addressed a critical gap in the carbon capture value chain, providing insights into the handling and storage of LCO2. The study’s findings have significant implications for the maritime industry, and its recommendations will inform the development of infrastructure, regulatory frameworks, and operational procedures for LCO2 offloading.

Conclusion

As the maritime industry continues to navigate the challenges of decarbonization, this study provides a crucial step towards operationalizing shipboard carbon capture technologies. The insights gained from this research will be instrumental in guiding the industry towards a more sustainable future. Stakeholders, including port and terminal operators, shipping lines, and regulatory bodies, must collaborate to implement the study’s recommendations and ensure the safe and efficient handling of LCO2.

List of Sources

• GCMD: Key competencies for handling liquid carbon
• PDF Concept Study to Offload Onboard Captured CO 2 1 – GCMD
• Concept study to offload onboard captured CO2 – GCMD
• Concept study to offload onboard captured CO₂ | LR – Lloyd’s Register
• GCMD, Lloyd’s Register join forces for liquefied carbon dioxide …
• GCMD: Navigating the challenges of Onboard Carbon Capture – SAFETY4SEA
• GCMD taps Lloyd’s Register for LCO2 offloading concept study
• Landmark study on offloading onboard captured carbon dioxide
• GCMD Selects Lloyd’s Register For LCO2 Offloading Concept Study
• GCMD awards concept study on offloading LCO2 captured on board ships to …