An overview of current status of carbon dioxide capture and storage technologies

AbstractGlobal warming and climate change concerns have triggered global efforts to reduce the concentration of atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2). Carbon dioxide capture and storage (CCS) is considered a crucial strategy for meeting CO2 emission reduction targets. In this paper, various aspects of CCS are reviewed and discussed including the state of the art technologies for CO2 capture, separation, transport, storage, leakage, monitoring, and life cycle analysis. The selection of specific CO2 capture technology heavily depends on the type of CO2 generating plant and fuel used. Among those CO2 separation processes, absorption is the most mature and commonly adopted due to its higher efficiency and lower cost. Pipeline is considered to be the most viable solution for large volume of CO2 transport. Among those geological formations for CO2 storage, enhanced oil recovery is mature and has been practiced for many years but its economical viability for anthropogenic sources needs to be demonstrated. There are growing interests in CO2 storage in saline aquifers due to their enormous potential storage capacity and several projects are in the pipeline for demonstration of its viability. There are multiple hurdles to CCS deployment including the absence of a clear business case for CCS investment and the absence of robust economic incentives to support the additional high capital and operating costs of the whole CCS process

Validazione di un modello circuitale di un banco di supercondensatori mediante prove sperimentali

Esecuzione di test sperimentali su un modulo di supercondensatori per l'individuazione dei parametri di un modello circuitale da implementare in ambiente simulink, per l'esecuzione di simulazioni.ope

Monitoring techniques of a natural analogue for sub-seabed CO2 leakages

Carbon dioxide sequestration in sub-seafloor aims to store CO2 inside geological trapping structures below the seafloor. However there are concerns related to the possibility of leakage from the storage sites and potential consequences on the marine environment. In order to develop safe and reliable methods for CO2 monitoring, field studies were conducted in a natural analogue–an area where there is a natural release of CO2 from the seafloor. Due to the very high volume of gas emitted, this natural analogue could be considered as the worst-case scenario for a possible leakage from a sub-seabed storage site. Sampling procedures for free and dissolved gas and measuring techniques of the main physical and chemical parameters were developed for use both from the surface and directly underwater by scientific scuba divers. The first results of the research indicate that high levels of CO2 released in the marine realm strongly affect the local environmental conditions with a generalized acidification of the seawater. The experience gained in this study allows further development of a more accurate and suitable monitoring suite that will integrate sensors for measuring pH, dissolved CO2, and eventually, acoustic systems for the detection, monitoring and quantification of gas bubbles. The monitoring system could be deployed on the seafloor for long-term monitoring or could be carried onboard movable platforms such as ROV’s (Remote Operated Vehicles) or AUV’s (Autonomous Underwater Vehicles) for systematic surveys of the sub-seabed storage areas

[The "Pozzo del Merro" drowned sinkhole: 20 years of exploration and study]

[In Italian

Panarea natural-lab: eight years of underwater research

The volcanic island of Panarea is characterized by the presence of continuous emission of volcanic gases from the seafloor. In November 2002 the system increased its flow of some order of magnitude and since then a steady release of gas is present generating bubble plumes that, in the shallowest points, reach the sea surface. Due to the environmental conditions, the area close to the shore and shallow water can be utilized as a “natural lab” to study the effect of high levels of CO2on the marine realm by surface techniques and directly by means of SCUBA diving. Since 2002, over one hundred hours of diving have been utilized to collect samples of fluids and sediments and to study the biota. After a first phase of volcanic surveillance, the island is more recently studied as a “natural analogue” for the development of reliable monitoring techniques for potential seepage from sub-seabed carbon storage sites. Hereby we present a synthesis of eight years of research in the area

Monitoring the geological storage of CO2

The ultimate purpose of monitoring is to confirm safe and permanent storage of CO2 in the reservoir. Other more specific monitoring objectives are also identified in this chapter. A selection of the technologies able to meet these objectives are described using examples from existing CO2 storage sites. Each site will have different characteristics, so the most suitable combination of monitoring technologies will be site specific. Therefore possible methods to help devise suitable monitoring strategies are also suggested. Monitoring results can be used to validate site performance using temporal modelling and these can build confidence in long term predictions of safe storage

A novel sub-seabed CO₂ release experiment informing monitoring and impact assessment for geological carbon storage

Carbon capture and storage is a mitigation strategy that can be used to aid the reduction of anthropogenic CO2 emissions. This process aims to capture CO2 from large point-source emitters and transport it to a long-term storage site. For much of Europe, these deep storage sites are anticipated to be sited below the sea bed on continental shelves. A key operational requirement is an understanding of best practice of monitoring for potential leakage and of the environmental impact that could result from a diffusive leak from a storage complex. Here we describe a controlled CO2 release experiment beneath the seabed, which overcomes the limitations of laboratory simulations and natural analogues. The complex processes involved in setting up the experimental facility and ensuring its successful operation are discussed, including site selection, permissions, communications and facility construction. The experimental design and observational strategy are reviewed with respect to scientific outcomes along with lessons learnt in order to facilitate any similar future