A recent study published in Cleaner Engineering and Technology highlights a promising approach to reducing carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from liquefied natural gas (LNG) vessels. Led by Jaafar Ballout from Texas A&M University at Qatar, the research explores innovative methods for capturing, compressing, and storing CO2 emitted from the exhaust of LNG engines. This is particularly significant as the shipping industry seeks to decarbonize amid increasing pressure to mitigate climate change.
Currently, the shipping sector predominantly relies on fossil fuels, and while there has been a shift from heavy oil to LNG, the emissions from these vessels remain a concern. The main engine on board is the largest energy consumer and the primary source of CO2 emissions. Ballout’s study investigates how to harness waste heat from the engine exhaust to power CO2 capture technologies, thus creating a self-sustaining system that does not require additional fuel combustion.
The research assesses four different CO2 capture technologies: chemical absorption, membranes, temperature swing adsorption, and cryogenic distillation. The findings indicate that thermal capture technologies, specifically absorption and adsorption, significantly outperform the others, capturing and storing more than double the amount of CO2 from the exhaust. This efficiency could lead to substantial reductions in greenhouse gas emissions from LNG vessels, aligning with global decarbonization goals.
Ballout states, “The proposed integration schemes resulted in self-sustainable onboard capture systems without combusting additional fuel.” This means that shipping companies could potentially implement these technologies without incurring additional operating costs related to fuel consumption. The integration of Organic Rankine Cycles (ORCs) plays a crucial role in converting waste heat into usable power for the capture systems, further enhancing the economic viability of these solutions.
The commercial implications of this research are significant. Shipping companies looking to meet stricter environmental regulations may find these carbon capture systems an attractive investment. Additionally, the technology could position LNG vessels as a more sustainable alternative in the maritime industry, attracting customers who prioritize environmentally friendly practices.
As the shipping industry continues to evolve in response to climate challenges, the integration of CO2 capture systems onboard LNG vessels presents a viable pathway for reducing emissions and promoting sustainability. This research not only contributes to the scientific understanding of emissions reduction but also opens up new opportunities for innovation and investment in green technologies within the maritime sector.
