In a recent webinar hosted by EERA CCS, Roland Span, a prominent figure in the field of thermodynamics and CO2 transport, and a member of our management board, led an enlightening webinar on the development of a European CO2 transport network. The webinar, titled "Towards a European CO2 Backbone – Current Developments and Open Questions," provided an in-depth look at the current state and future challenges of establishing a robust CO2 transport infrastructure in Europe.

Introducing the European CO2 Backbone

Span's presentation highlighted the European Commission's ambition to develop a discrimination-free, multimodal CO2 transport network. This initiative, driven by DG Energy, aims to address potential structural disadvantages for regions distant from storage sites and is now propelled by industrial interest in CO2 emission reduction solutions.

The Dynamic Development of CO2 Transport

Span emphasized the changing landscape of CO2 transport, with industry now at the forefront of driving development. The feasibility of Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) projects depends heavily on efficient CO2 transport to storage sites. Span noted that the cost-effectiveness of CO2 processing is significantly influenced by the allowable levels of impurities, necessitating strict monitoring and standards to ensure pipeline integrity.

Germany's Pipeline Network Plans

Span provided a detailed overview of the planned CO2 pipeline network in Germany. The most concrete plans focus on the regions around Hamburg and the Rhine Valley down to Cologne. These long-distance pipelines, operating in the dense phase, will need to be supplemented by CO2 collection systems using tanks on rail, inland vessels, and gas-phase pipelines, especially during the initial stages.

Addressing Impurities and Ensuring Pipeline Integrity

A major challenge in CO2 transport is managing impurities. Possible reactions within CO2 streams require stringent limits for NOx and SOx impurities, with no precise models yet available to predict these reactions accurately. This necessitates case-by-case tests, highlighting an urgent need for further research and innovation.

Standardization Efforts and Future Outlook

Span detailed ongoing standardization efforts by organizations like ISO, DVGW, and CEN. The ISO technical committee is updating standards for CO2 pipeline transportation, while DVGW in Germany is developing standards for CO2 stream quality. CEN has also initiated work on quality requirements and quantification across the CCS value chain. These efforts aim to provide a stable foundation for the industry's investment decisions.

Research Needs and Potential Solutions

To overcome remaining challenges, future research is critical. Span highlighted the importance of upcoming Horizon 2024 calls focusing on the effects of CO2 stream impurities on transport and storage systems. Innovations such as polymer linings resistant to both CO2 and acidic conditions could potentially revolutionize pipeline integrity management.

Conclusion

The webinar underscored the complexities and collaborative efforts required to develop a European CO2 transport backbone. Roland Span's insights into the dynamic industrial developments, regulatory challenges, and critical research needs provide a roadmap for advancing Europe's CCS infrastructure.

As we move forward, the collective efforts of industry, research institutions, and regulatory bodies will be paramount in overcoming these challenges and achieving the EU's climate goals. Stay tuned for more updates and insights from EERA CCS as we continue to lead in carbon capture and storage research.

Join the conversation

This webinar is part of an ongoing webinar series hosted by EERA CCS. The series is one of the many benefits of being a member of our joint programme, fostering a dynamic environment where researchers, academics, and industry professionals can discuss, challenge, and enhance their understanding of critical topics in the field. This consistent exchange of knowledge and ideas through such webinars contributes to EERA CCS's mission of accelerating the development and deployment of carbon capture and storage technologies.