In the quest to decarbonize hard-to-abate sectors like energy-intensive industries and maritime transport, carbon capture technologies have emerged as a critical tool. However, a recent study published in the journal “Chemical Engineering Transactions” suggests that the social sustainability aspect, particularly process safety, is often overlooked in the early design stages of these technologies. The research, led by Francesco Zanobetti, integrates inherent safety into a comprehensive sustainability framework to evaluate carbon capture options more effectively.
The study explores three carbon capture technologies: solvent-based absorption, adsorption, and calcium looping for an industrial cement plant, and solvent-based absorption, adsorption, and cryogenic separation for a maritime case study involving a cruise ship. The findings reveal significant performance differences, with amine scrubbing— a common solvent-based absorption method—demonstrating a hazard level at least 15 times higher than alternative capture technologies.
“Incorporating inherent safety into the decision-making process is crucial for ensuring sustainable carbon capture strategies,” Zanobetti emphasizes. The research highlights trade-offs between safety and environmental performance, underscoring the need for a balanced approach that considers all four pillars of sustainability: technological, economic, environmental, and social.
For the energy sector, these findings could have substantial commercial implications. As companies increasingly adopt carbon capture technologies to meet decarbonization goals, the emphasis on safety could influence technology selection and investment decisions. “By prioritizing inherent safety, companies can mitigate risks, enhance operational efficiency, and ultimately improve their bottom line,” Zanobetti notes.
The study’s integration of inherent safety into a broader sustainability framework offers a more holistic approach to evaluating carbon capture technologies. This could shape future developments in the field, encouraging innovation in safer, more sustainable capture methods. As the energy sector continues to evolve, the insights from this research will be invaluable in guiding strategic decisions and fostering a more sustainable future.
Published in the English-language journal “Chemical Engineering Transactions,” the study provides a robust foundation for further exploration and discussion in the realm of carbon capture and storage technologies.