Search Results (30)

Thailand has committed to achieving net-zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2050, requiring a fundamental transformation of its energy system. This study developed an integrated energy modelling framework by coupling the Low-Emission Analysis Platform (LEAP) with the Next Energy Modelling System for Optimisation (NEMO) to evaluate Thailand’s long-term energy transition under three scenarios: Business as Usual (BAU), Current Policy Scenario (CPS), and Net Zero 2050 (NZ2050). The novelty of this study lies in integrating sectoral energy demand modelling; least-cost electricity system optimisation; GHG emissions accounting; and system cost assessment within a single framework to evaluate the technical, environmental, and economic implications of decarbonisation pathways. The results show that demand-side GHG emissions increase to 370.7 MtCO₂eq by 2050 under BAU, while current policies reduce emissions to 137.6 MtCO₂eq but remain insufficient to achieve Thailand’s climate targets. In contrast, the NZ2050 scenario lowers demand-side GHG emissions to 27.23 MtCO₂eq (a 93% reduction relative to BAU) through extensive electrification; a 59% improvement in energy intensity; accelerated renewable energy deployment; coal phase-out by 2045; and the deployment of carbon capture, utilisation and storage (CCUS), and bioenergy with carbon capture and storage (BECCS). Residual transport emissions are reduced to 23 MtCO₂eq and offset through carbon removal measures. On the supply side, least-cost optimisation reduces power-sector emissions to 2.9 MtCO₂eq while lowering electricity generation costs by approximately 47% through an optimised renewable-based generation mix. The findings demonstrate that Thailand’s net-zero target is technically feasible and economically viable; the integrated LEAP–NEMO framework provides a robust decision-support tool for national energy planning and other emerging economies pursuing cost-effective net-zero transitions. Full article

This study presents an environmental and circularity assessment of an integrated insulation-production system that valorises plastic waste and wood packaging waste as secondary material and energy resources. The analysis evaluates the recovery of incoming waste streams and their reintegration into a new production cycle, while the downstream end-of-life of the resulting insulation product remains outside the assessed system boundary. The process chain includes mechanical pre-treatment of wood (grinding, metal separation, and pelletising); thermochemical conversion via wood gasification and gas combustion; and post-combustion CO₂ capture. The captured CO₂ is used in the subsequent polymer processing stages, which comprise mixing, extrusion, thermal treatment, and cooling. Environmental impacts are evaluated through Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), while circularity indicators are assessed within the framework of EN 15804+A2. The results demonstrate the environmental and circularity potential of valorising wood packaging and plastic waste in the context of carbon capture and utilisation (CCU) and sustainable material development. Full article

Despite the extensive literature on microalgal production, most studies focus on controlled laboratory-scale systems, resulting in a critical lack of confidence at industrial scale. This is further compounded by the frequently observed inconsistencies, with only modest increases achieved in operational scale. This work demonstrates the design, construction, and operation of a commercial-scale tubular photobioreactor and associated equipment for the production of algae using CO₂ derived from an industrial nickel refinery. The reactor was demonstrated by growing the species Nannochloropsis gaditana. Biomass concentrations of 1.0 to 1.3 g L⁻¹ were achieved with a productivity of 0.11 g L⁻¹ d⁻¹. Extrapolation to a 300-day production year showed that the reactor was capable of producing 541.2 kg algae and sequestering around 1 tonne of CO₂. A technoeconomic assessment showed that the total plant CAPEX was £583,905 and the OPEX was £98,196. Sales of algae alone showed poor economic performance. However, economic favourability is observed for species that contain phycocyanin pigment and yield a positive net present value within 4 to 7 years based on recovery yield. This work effectively provides reliable process data developed at scale that can be used to formulate business cases for further scale-up and expansion of algal production systems. This moves the technology a step closer to full-scale realisation and the potential for a net-zero, sustainable future. Full article

Despite being fundamental to modern infrastructure, the cement and concrete industry is a major contributor to global carbon emissions, necessitating urgent decarbonisation strategies to mitigate climate change and achieve net-zero targets by 2050. This review explores technological pathways and innovations essential for lowering carbon emissions, including low-carbon materials, energy-efficient processes, carbon capture, utilization and storage (CCUS), and advanced production technologies. It also highlights the importance of supportive policy frameworks, financial incentives, and international collaboration in accelerating the transition to a low-carbon industry. While challenges such as high initial costs, resistance to change, and knowledge gaps persist, these can be addressed through innovation, education, and robust financial mechanisms. Furthermore, circular economy principles, sustainable procurement practices, and continued research and development are emphasized as critical enablers of the industry’s transformation. The paper concludes with recommendations for future actions, highlighting the role of cross-sector cooperation, research funding, and knowledge sharing in achieving a sustainable and decarbonised cement and concrete sector that can “go green” for eco-constructions. Full article

In February 2024, the European Union published its Industrial Carbon Management Strategy, setting ambitious goals for carbon capture and storage (CCS), carbon capture and utilisation (CCU), and related technologies. Industrial decarbonisation will require a mix of solutions, CCUS, electrification, hydrogen and hydrogen-derived fuels, and energy efficiency, which are all dependent on affordable clean energy. Although carbon management technologies could contribute substantially to climate targets, their deployment has been slowed by technical barriers and public concerns. Sotacarbo has created a research centre dedicated to developing and testing carbon capture, utilisation, and storage technologies. Within this framework, the new Sotacarbo Fault Laboratory (SFL) was designed to investigate gas migration in faults and to test monitoring systems capable of detecting potential short- and long-term CO₂ leakages. This paper presents a preliminary study, including seismic full-waveform simulations for time-lapse surveys before and after CO₂ injection, and a suite of geophysical methods used to characterise the Matzaccara Fault within the Eocene Sulcis Basin. The results of the application of integrated geophysical methods support the selection of a safe and suitable injection-well location and demonstrate the value of these methods for detailed fault characterisation in CCUS applications. Full article

Accurate modelling of carbon dioxide (CO₂) dispersion and infiltration into buildings is essential for assessing the risks associated with accidental releases from carbon capture, utilisation, and storage (CCUS) infrastructure. This study presents an integrated analytical and computational framework for evaluating CO₂ infiltration, incorporating a modified equation of state (EOS) to account for non-ideal gas behaviour. The original infiltration model, based on wind- and buoyancy-driven ventilation, is extended using a virial EOS. Key performance metrics are used to validate the model against experimental data and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations. A comprehensive set of 30 case studies is used to assess model performance across a range of building geometries and environmental conditions. Results show that the modified EOS has minimal impact on far-field predictions, confirming the robustness of the ideal gas assumption under ambient conditions. Importantly, the study finds that CO₂ impurities do not significantly affect far-field dispersion once ambient pressure is reached, though they may influence near-field behaviour at the release point. Full article

In the present study, an Engineering Critical Assessment (ECA) is conducted for an International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Type C liquefied CO₂ (LCO₂) cargo tank to evaluate the effect of finite element configuration on structural integrity in the presence of potential flaws. With the increasing demand for LCO₂ carriers to support carbon capture, utilisation, and storage (CCUS), conventional stress-based design approaches outlined in the International Gas Carrier (IGC) Code have limitations because they neglect imperfections resulting from fabrication and material. To assess these flaws, the fracture mechanics-based ECA methodology, as prescribed by the BS 7910 standard, is applied to a bilobe IMO type C tank designed for cryogenic and pressurised conditions. The assessment integrates fracture toughness, stress intensity factor, and applied loads. Both the two-dimensional shell element model and the three-dimensional solid element model are developed and compared in terms of stress distribution, safety factor for fracture, and fatigue crack growth predictions. Results show that while shell models offer computational efficiency, solid models capture bending stresses and stress concentrations at geometric discontinuities more accurately, resulting in higher reliability in ECA outcomes. The comparative analysis highlights that the web and butt weld near the centre bulkhead are the most vulnerable regions, and fatigue crack growth is highly sensitive to input data, such as stress intensity factor range and fatigue crack growth laws. These findings provide practical guidance for applying ECA in bilobe LCO₂ tank design and safety assessment. Full article

Carbon capture, utilisation and storage technologies are increasingly recognised as critical components of global climate mitigation strategies. However, the effective monitoring and verification of greenhouse gas emission reductions from carbon capture, utilisation and storage facilities remain significant challenges. This review synthesises current monitoring methods, including in situ sensing, drone-based observations and satellite remote sensing, and critically evaluates their strengths, limitations and applicability to various carbon capture, utilisation and storage contexts. We analyse the regulatory frameworks that govern monitoring practices across jurisdictions, identify methodological gaps and assess the performance of existing technologies with respect to detection thresholds, the integration of multiple data sources and the requirements for long-term verification. Particular emphasis is placed on the role of data assimilation and inversion modelling in interpreting measurements and quantifying emissions. Based on this synthesis, we recommend a more harmonised, concentration-based approach to monitoring that combines diverse observation platforms to enhance the accuracy, transparency and cost-effectiveness of verification efforts. This review aims to support the development of best practices for environmental monitoring and assessment in the context of carbon capture, utilisation and storage deployment. Full article

Cement bond evaluation helps check wellbore integrity and zonal isolation in carbon capture, utilisation, and storage (CCUS) projects. This overview describes various cement bond evaluation methods, focusing on acoustic logging and ultrasonic imaging tools supplemented by emerging data-driven interpretation techniques. Their advantages, limitations, and recent advancements are described with illustrative example on ultrasonic-image-based machine learning classifier that detect microannulus. Key research gaps remain in field-scale validation of long-term cement behaviour and in establishing comprehensive 3-D bond-strength benchmarks. To address these gaps, this review recommends (i) creating an open, standardised ML dataset for CCUS well logs, (ii) adopting best-practice pressure-monitoring protocols during and after injection, and (iii) integrating ML analytics with advanced modelling while exploring alternative binder systems. The next step is to test these ML models on real CO₂-storage well data, paving the way toward more reliable cement-bond integrity assessments in future CCUS projects. Full article

As urbanisation and infrastructure development continue to drive rising cement demand, the imperative to significantly reduce emissions from this emissions-intensive sector has become increasingly urgent, especially in the context of global climate goals such as achieving net zero emissions by 2050. This review examines the status, challenges and prospects of low-carbon cement technologies and mitigation strategies through the lens of the U.K. cement industry. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining structured literature searches across academic databases with analyses of industry reports, market data and technological roadmaps to ensure a comprehensive evaluation. Following an outline of cement production, resource flows and the sector’s landscape in the U.K., the review delves into an array of decarbonisation pathways. This includes deploying the best available technologies (BATs), fuel switching, carbon capture utilisation and storage (CCUS), clinker substitution and low-carbon cement formulations. A critical assessment is provided on the technological readiness, costs, resource availability considerations and scalability aspects governing the widespread implementation prospects of these approaches within the U.K. cement industry. Furthermore, this study proposes a roadmap that considers priority avenues and policy needs essential for facilitating the transition towards sustainable cement production aligned with the U.K.’s net zero obligations by 2050. This evaluation contributes significantly to the ongoing decarbonisation discourse by holistically mapping technological solutions and strategic imperatives tailored to the unique challenges and opportunities presented by the U.K. cement sector. Full article

This paper thoroughly examines the latest developments and diverse applications of Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS) in civil engineering. It provides a critical analysis of the technology’s potential to mitigate the effects of climate change. Initially, a comprehensive outline of CCUS technologies is presented, emphasising their vital function in carbon dioxide (CO₂) emission capture, conversion, and sequestration. Subsequent sections provide an in-depth analysis of carbon capture technologies, utilisation processes, and storage solutions. These serve as the foundation for an architectural framework that facilitates the design and integration of efficient systems. Significant attention is given to the inventive application of CCUS in the building and construction industry. Notable examples of such applications include using carbon (C) in cement and promoting sustainable cement production. Economic analyses and financing mechanisms are reviewed to assess the commercial feasibility and scalability of CCUS projects. In addition, this review examines the technological advances and innovations that have occurred, providing insight into the potential future course of CCUS progress. A comprehensive analysis of the environmental and regulatory environments is conducted to evaluate the feasibility and compliance with the policies of CCUS technology deployment. Case studies from the real world are provided to illustrate effectiveness and practical applications. It concludes by emphasising the importance of continued research, policy support, and innovation in developing CCUS technologies as a fundamental component of sustainable civil engineering practices. A tenacious stride toward carbon neutrality is underscored. Full article

CO₂ emissions from fossil fuel combustion are the main source of anthropogenic greenhouse gases (GHGs). A method of reducing CO₂ emissions is CCUS (carbon capture, utilisation, and storage) technology. One part of CCUS technology involves mineral sequestration as its final stage, utilisation, which can be carried out using natural raw materials or waste. This is a particularly interesting option for power and CHP plants that use coal as their primary fuel. Combustion processes produce fly ash as a waste by-product, which has a high potential for CO₂ sequestration. Calcium fly ash from lignite combustion and fly ash from fluidised bed boilers have particularly high potential due to their high CaO content. Fly ash can be used in the mineral sequestration of CO₂ via direct and indirect carbonation. Both methods use CO₂ and flue gases. Studies conducted so far have analysed the influence of factors such as temperature, pressure, and the liquid-to-solid (L/S) ratio on the carbonation process, which have shown different effects depending on the ash used and the form of the process. Due to the large differences found in the properties of fly ash, related primarily to the type of fuel and boiler used, the process of mineral CO₂ sequestration requires much research into its feasibility on an industrial scale. However, the method is promising for industrial applications due to the possibility of reducing CO₂ emissions and, at the same time, recovering waste. Full article

In recent years, technical processes for the sequestration of CO₂ through industrial waste mineral carbonation have been explored and developed. There is a large portfolio of carbon capture, utilisation, and storage (CCUS) techniques that have been employed in laboratories and at pilot scale. These include geological storage, ocean storage, and mineralisation by carbonate ores. In view of this, the main purpose of this research was to investigate and explore chemical variables, particularly ammonium salts as lixiviants for calcium mineral extraction from iron-making slag. The slag in use was acquired from a steel mill in the Vaal Triangle Region in Gauteng, South Africa. The experimental test work was conducted using different ammonium lixiviants, namely, NH₄NO₃, NH₄Cl, and CH₃COONH₄, to understand the influence of anion type as well as possible differences in mechanisms of interactions. Lixiviant concentration as well as reaction time were varied in this research study. The three selected ammonium-based lixiviants showed different extents of calcium extraction owing to differences in the anion groups. NH₄NO₃, NH₄Cl, and CH₃COONH₄ were found to be capable of dissolving 50% to 80% of the calcium from the selected slag for different molar concentrations. Anion type and leaching time also had significant influences on the leaching of calcium from the slag. Rapid pH degradation resulted in better calcium extraction capabilities. This work has shown that the selected ammonium salts have the potential to be lixiviants for calcium dissolution from iron-making blast furnace slags. These lixiviants would, therefore, be important to consider during calcium mineral carbonation for CO₂ sequestration. Full article

Magnesite (MgCO₃) is a carbonate mineral, which is calcinated and further processed to generate magnesia (MgO) refractory materials and other products. MgCO₃ products are mainly used in the iron and steel industries, in cement manufacture as a refractory material, and as raw materials in the chemical industry, in agriculture, etc. The MgO refractory industry is linked with carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions released not only from the fuel combustion in the production process of MgCO₃, but also from its decomposition. Even though the exact amount of CO₂ eq. depends on the specific product, there is the urge to minimise the CO₂ emitted from MgO₃ processing. Carbon capture and utilisation (CCU) technology has gained ground in recent years in this industry. The incorporation of CCU systems for the processing of fuel gases has been investigated as a means to contribute further to the decarbonisation of the extractive industries. The CO₂ captured through this process can be converted into a value-added chemical or liquid fuel. This study aims to overview the impact of the application of CCU technologies in MgCO₃ processing lines and the conversion of the captured CO₂ to methanol (MeOH). In this regard, the strengths (S), the weaknesses (W), the opportunities (O), and the threats (T) of the proposed concept will be discussed in a SWOT analysis coupled with the environmental and techno-economic aspects. Full article