Leading institutions including FEnEx CRC, JX Nippon Oil & Gas Exploration Corporation, Low Emission Technology Australia, Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd., and Osaka Gas Co., Ltd. have inked a Project Agreement to initiate the “LP Technology R&D Project”. This project will spearhead R&D to demonstrate the viability and functionality of low-pressure and low-temperature solutions for the bulk transport of CO2 via maritime channels.
Under the guidance of FEnEx CRC, educational giants like the University of Western Australia, Curtin University, Seoul National University, and deepC Store Pty Ltd will work in conjunction to explore:
Current CO2 vessel designs have constrained storage capacities due to their 18 bar, -26 °C operational specifications. Optimal conditions of roughly 7 bar and -49 °C are perceived as optimal for CO2 vessel design cost reductions. Yet, no instances of CO2 shipment under these conditions exist. It’s crucial to confront and mitigate operational risks while boosting the odds of technical viability.
The ultimate goal? To develop technologies crucial for the safe, large-scale shipping of CO2. By showcasing this tech, the broader Asia Pacific and Australia can inch closer to Net Zero, connecting pivotal emission sources to lasting storage and utilization solutions.
Professor Eric May, CEO & Managing Director, FEnEx CRC: “Australia stands at the cusp of leadership in scaling industrial CO2 transport. Thriving research will not only unlock economic avenues for Australia but also catalyze international synergy crucial for our decarbonisation mission.”
Yasuto Ariga, Executive Officer, JX NOEX: “Our goal, alongside project partners, is crafting a practical CO2 bulk transport system. Moreover, this venture aids in cultivating strong ties with Australian sectors, given its vast CO2 sequestration capacity, while enhancing collaborations towards a tangible overseas CCS project.”
Mark McCallum, CEO, LETA: “With over a decade into low-emission tech investments, LETA’s prime focus remains significant emission curtailment, propelling a low-emission global economic paradigm. This project represents a beacon of technological advancement, fortifying Australia’s export legacy.”
Yasuchika Noma, Executive Officer, MOL: “Joining forces with Australian academia and Japanese corporates to accelerate the technical and commercial evolution of CO2 shipping is a privilege. This project symbolizes a stride towards a sustainable, low-carbon future.”
Norio Hatanaka, Associate Director, Osaka Gas: “Post our 2050 carbon neutrality commitment declaration and the 2023 ‘Energy Transition 2030’ announcement, our focus remains on creating a sustainable CO2 value chain. Low-pressure CO2 transport is pivotal for economical movement, and this project offers an avenue into uncharted territories of CO2 handling.
