In the relentless pursuit of mitigating climate change, the energy sector is increasingly turning to innovative technologies to capture and store carbon dioxide. Among these, marine carbon sequestration stands out for its potential to store vast amounts of CO2 in seabed geological structures. However, the efficient transfer of liquid CO2 (LCO2) from ships to offshore platforms presents a significant challenge. A groundbreaking study published in the Journal of Marine Science and Engineering, led by Hao Cheng from the Research and Development Center at CNOOC Gas & Power Group Co., Ltd., in Beijing, delves into the design and mechanical analysis of cryogenic hoses, crucial for the ship-to-ship transfer of LCO2.
As the global economy expands, so does the urgency to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Governments worldwide are setting ambitious carbon reduction targets, making Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS) technologies indispensable. Marine carbon sequestration, which involves storing CO2 in underwater geological formations, offers a promising solution due to its large storage capacity and stability. However, the technology hinges on the reliable transfer of LCO2 from transportation vessels to offshore platforms, a task that demands robust and flexible cryogenic hoses.
Cheng’s research reviews existing cryogenic hose designs, including reinforced corrugated hoses, vacuum-insulated hoses, and composite hoses, to evaluate their suitability for LCO2 transfer. The study proposes a novel composite hose structure designed to address the unique challenges posed by LCO2’s physicochemical properties. “The key is to balance flexibility, pressure resistance, and thermal insulation,” Cheng explains. “Our proposed design features a double-spring-supported internal composite hose, a thermal insulation layer, and an outer sheath, ensuring structural strength and sealing.”
The study’s findings are particularly relevant as the demand for LCO2 shipping is projected to surge. According to energy consultancy Rystad Energy, an estimated 55 dedicated transportation vessels will be required to meet the shipping demand for over 90 million tons of LCO2 per year by 2030. Major CCUS projects, such as Norway’s Northern Lights and the UK’s Project Greensand, are already planning to leverage LCO2 shipping for efficient transportation to injection sites.
The proposed hose design aims to enhance the reliability and safety of LCO2 transfer operations, which is crucial for the commercial viability of marine carbon sequestration. “Future research should focus on optimizing material selection and functional layer configuration to achieve a balance between flexibility, strength, corrosion resistance, and thermal insulation,” Cheng suggests. “Integrating real-time monitoring systems, such as fiber optic sensors, within the hose structure can provide early warnings of leakage or structural degradation, further enhancing operational safety.”
The study also highlights the need for standardization efforts to establish comprehensive performance criteria for LCO2 cryogenic hoses. Collaboration with industry stakeholders and regulatory bodies will be essential in developing guidelines that ensure the safe and effective deployment of these hoses for offshore CCUS applications.
As the energy sector continues to evolve, the development of reliable LCO2 cryogenic hoses will play a pivotal role in advancing marine carbon sequestration and the broader implementation of CCUS technologies. Cheng’s research, published in the Journal of Marine Science and Engineering, provides a foundational reference for engineers and industry practitioners, paving the way for future innovations in this critical field. The study’s insights are set to shape the future of carbon management, offering a beacon of hope in the global effort to combat climate change.
