Japan’s Mitsubishi Shipbuilding has completed a conceptual study for the design of an “Ammonia/Liquefied CO2 Carrier” capable of transporting both ammonia and liquefied carbon dioxide (LCO2).
The extensive study conducted with Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. provides the basis for a type of vessel with potential to become mainstream in the LCO2 carrier market by flexibly meeting the projected increase in demand for transporting ammonia and LCO2.
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As informed, LCO2 carriers play an important role in the carbon dioxide capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) value chain, which is attracting attention as a means to achieve a decarbonized world, by providing a way to efficiently transport recovered LCO2 to storage sites and facilities for effective utilization. MHI Group estimates that the volume of CO2 reduction due to CCUS will amount to 4.3 to 13.0 billion tonnes annually by 2050.
The vessel for transporting ammonia and LCO2 developed through this conceptual study is designed to carry ammonia on its outward journey, and LCO2 on the return trip. Specific carriers for each material normally run empty on their return voyage, so a ship able to handle both substances will increase operational efficiency, and contribute to enhanced transport efficiency overall.
Mitsubishi Shipbuilding reports that the company will continue to further develop the technology based on the knowledge acquired and technical issues encountered during this project. Working in cooperation with marine-related corporations and petroleum development corporations, the aim is to commercialize the vessel.
In addition. the company will continue to develop various types of ships based on this design in order to respond flexibly to customer needs. The company looks to develop and commercialize LCO2 carriers supporting the development of the CCUS value chain and become a leader in the emerging segments related to decarbonization.
Furthermore, amid an increasing interest in carbon capture and storage (CCS) as a promising green technology to address CO2 emissions from shipping, maritime transport is expected to dominate the CCS value chain, which is forecast to lead to a growing demand for liquefied CO2 (LCO2) carriers. In this value chain, liquefied CO2 carriers play an essential role in transporting liquefied CO2 to the sites where it is stored and/or utilized.
