Japan launches demonstration LCO2 carrier
Japan has launched a demonstration liquefied CO2 (LCO2) carrier named Excool, marking a significant step forward in the country's efforts to develop carbon capture, utilisation, and storage (CCUS) technology, Engineering Advancement Association of Japan, K-Line, Nippon Gas Line Co., and Ochanomizu University said on November 28.
The vessel, built by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, was christened and handed over to Sanyu Kisen (Kobe City) and chartered to Nippon Gas Line. It will be operated in a demonstration project aimed at establishing a technology for the large-volume and long-distance marine transport of LCO2, which is considered crucial for the development of Japan's CCUS sector. The vessel has a capacity of 1,450 m3.
The Engineering Advancement Association of Japan has been conducting research and development for the operation of a demonstration ship equipped with an LCO2 ship tank system.
Ochanomizu University is conducting basic research on the control of the state of carbon dioxide (phase changes) and providing the information required for safe transportation.
K-Line has helped to prepare an operation manual by conducting a risk assessment of the vessel using its expertise in operating cryogenic liquefied gas carriers.
Nippon Gas Line, utilizing its expertise in operating coastal gas carriers, will measure CO2 temperature, pressure, flow, and other data while operating the vessel to develop optimal transport methods and cargo handling techniques.