In the race to combat climate change, precision and reliability in measuring greenhouse gases are paramount. A groundbreaking study published in the EPJ Web of Conferences, the European Physical Journal’s conference proceedings, is set to revolutionize the way we approach carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS). This research, led by Florbela A. Dias of the Portuguese Institute for Quality (Instituto Português da Qualidade), is part of the EPM SRT-v01 – MetCCUS project, a pioneering metrology initiative funded by EURAMET. The project aims to address the metrological challenges identified by the industry, providing the necessary standards and methods to support accurate measurements in CCUS technologies.
The European Green Deal, a cornerstone of the European Commission’s environmental strategy, has set ambitious targets: a 55% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 and carbon neutrality by 2050. Achieving these goals requires not just innovation but also meticulous measurement and verification. This is where Dias’s work comes into play.
The study focused on characterizing and stabilizing multicomponent gas mixtures, a critical aspect of CCUS technologies. “The stability of these mixtures is crucial for the accuracy of measurements in carbon capture processes,” Dias explained. “Without reliable standards, the entire CCUS chain is compromised.”
The research team successfully characterized eight different gas mixtures, including combinations of SO2, H2S, CO, CH4, and O2 in a CO2 matrix. These mixtures were studied under high pressure (approximately 40 bar) over a year, employing advanced statistical methods to ensure their stability. The use of the Normalized Error (En) function, in accordance with the international standard ISO 13528:2022, provided a robust framework for the statistical evaluation.
The implications of this research are far-reaching. Accurate measurement and verification are essential for the commercial viability of CCUS technologies. Industries relying on these processes, from power generation to manufacturing, stand to benefit significantly. “Reliable metrology is the backbone of any industrial process,” Dias noted. “It ensures that we can trust the data we’re working with, which is crucial for making informed decisions and optimizing operations.”
The study’s findings are expected to shape future developments in the field by providing a solid foundation for metrological standards. As the energy sector continues to evolve, the need for precise and reliable measurements will only grow. This research paves the way for more accurate and efficient CCUS technologies, bringing us one step closer to achieving the European Green Deal’s ambitious targets.
The publication in the EPJ Web of Conferences, known in English as the European Physical Journal Web of Conferences, marks a significant milestone in the journey towards a more sustainable future. As industries and governments alike strive to reduce their carbon footprint, the work of Dias and her team will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping the energy landscape of tomorrow.
