A recent study led by Gabriel de F. da Costa from the Escola de Química at UFRJ has shed light on the economic and socio-environmental aspects of CO2 compression in Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS) projects. As the urgency to mitigate carbon emissions grows, understanding the efficiency and feasibility of different CO2 compression strategies becomes increasingly important for the energy sector.
The research, published in ‘E3S Web of Conferences’, analyzed various stages of CO2 compression, ranging from one to six stages. The findings revealed that a single-stage compression strategy is the most economically viable option, which could appeal to companies looking to minimize costs in their CCUS operations. “The compression strategy using only one stage proved to be the most economically feasible,” noted da Costa, emphasizing the financial implications for businesses considering investment in carbon capture technologies.
However, the study also highlighted the socio-environmental performance of these strategies. Interestingly, the six-stage compression method emerged as the most efficient in terms of energy and water consumption, carbon footprint, and tax implications. “The strategy with 6 stages proved to be the most efficient with lower energy and water consumption,” da Costa explained, indicating that while this method may not be the cheapest, it offers significant environmental benefits.
When weighing all factors—economic, environmental, and social—the research suggests that a two-stage compression strategy strikes the best balance. This could present a unique opportunity for energy companies to adopt a more sustainable approach while still managing costs effectively. The dual focus on profitability and environmental responsibility is likely to resonate well within an industry increasingly pressured to reduce its carbon emissions.
As CCUS technology advances and becomes a central part of global efforts to combat climate change, the insights from da Costa’s study will be crucial for stakeholders in the energy sector. By understanding the trade-offs between economic feasibility and socio-environmental impact, companies can make informed decisions that align with both their financial goals and sustainability commitments.
For more information about the research, you can visit Escola de Química, UFRJ.
