Feasibility Study: Installing Carbon Capture & Storage

Bureau Veritas (BV) is a world leader in testing, inspection, and certification. Wah Kwong is one of Hong Kong’s largest shipowners. Shanghai Qiyao Environmental Technology Co. Ltd. (QIYAO ENVIRON TEC) is a subsidiary of Shanghai Marine Diesel Engine Research Institute. They all have signed a cooperation agreement to study the feasibility of installing carbon capture and storage (CCS) units on existing ships to meet 2030 CII targets.

Concept

Specifically, the study will focus on two types of bulk carriers in operation from the Wah Kwong fleet. Based on the specific design parameters of the vessels, Qiyao Environmental Technology has developed a customized design of CCS units. Particularly for the Wah Kwong fleet and submitted relevant drawings. BV reviewed the plans according to existing regulations and rules to ensure the safety of the vessels and equipment. Thus, the vessels effectively achieved the carbon emission reduction targets during the operation of the vessels. Subsequent research work will follow for oil tankers.

Additionally, the CCS concept developed by Qiyao has completed laboratory testing. Hence, achieving a total carbon capture rate of over 85% so far. Note that, the system is in the process of continuous optimization. Moreover, the CCS unit design can fit different ship types and sizes. The design approval of the CCS unit is under review.

CCS System

The CCS system mainly consists of an absorption unit, a separation unit, a compression unit, a refrigeration unit, and a storage unit. The main principle is that the organic amine compound solution reacts with the carbon dioxide (CO2) in the absorption unit, separating it from the rest of the exhaust gas. The dissolved carbon dioxide compound solution is desorbed at high temperature in the separation tower, before the extracted carbon dioxide is compressed, purified, and cooled into liquid carbon dioxide and stored in a low-temperature storage tank.

BV_CCUS_Carbon_Capture_Utilization_Storage_Infographic

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”The transition to a greener shipping industry is critical. Carbon capture, utilisation and storage (CCUS) technology captured a total of 40 million tons of CO2 in 2021 according to the International Energy Agency (IEA), notably in industrial projects on shore. This makes CCUS one of the options available today that could significantly contribute to achieve carbon neutrality, as well as a promising avenue for reducing emissions from shipping.”
Alex Gregg-Smith, Senior Vice President & Chief Executive, North Asia & China, Bureau Veritas Marine & Offshore

Note that, the land-based industry has been using carbon capture technology for many years and the solutions are mature. However, as a marine application, there are challenges that must be addressed when considering of installing Carbon Capture & Storage. These are safety, layout, energy consumption, and the need to balance cost-effectiveness.

Bureau Veritas helps clients comply with environmental regulations, implement green solutions onboard, measure decarbonization progress, and more. From conceptual design to construction, from process services to green recycling, BV experts provide services across the entire life cycle of a ship. BV remains committed to providing technical solutions and certifications to the shipping industry, contributing to shaping a better maritime world.

Source: Bureau Veritas