Ensuring that new CO2 capture technology works

2008-11-19

In order to ensure that new CO2 capture technology works as intended, DNV, together with the industry and Norwegian authorities, has developed a new qualification procedure.

A great number of new cutting-edge technologies are being developed to ensure the cleaner use of fossil fuels. Large-scale Carbon Capture, Transport and Storage is one of the most promising solutions in this transition.

“Today, DNV is releasing its new qualification procedure for CO2 capture technology. With this, stakeholders can rely on a common approach to ensure that the carbon capture innovations actually work as intended,” says DNV’s project manager, Tore Myhrvold.

Avoid unpleasant surprises
The energy industry sometimes experiences unpleasant surprises in its efforts to apply new technology, resulting in cost overruns and delays. DNV’s recognised methodology for technology qualification has been applied to the most complex new innovations world-wide, and has assured stakeholders that the new technology works as intended.

Myhrvold explains that: “New CO2 capture technology, however, is not adequately covered by established codes and procedures. The CO2 sector is relatively immature with unproven components, processes or systems with a general lack of historical data. The technologies that are to be commercialized within the CO2 sector can be both emerging technologies and technology that is unproven on a large industrial scale.

To deal with these challenges, DNV’s new qualification procedure for CO2 capture technology explains in detail how to identify, assess and manage risks (failure modes or threats). This is done by following a set of sequential steps in the qualification process.

Ensures reability
“By adhering to DNV’s qualification standard, a company can demonstrate to a project’s stakeholders that the technology will function within specific limits and with an acceptable level of confidence. For instance, one of the goals of the qualification process may be to demonstrate the reliability of the technology’s functionality. For the owner, it ensures thorough qualification testing and risk management of the development. For buyers or operators, the new standard reduces the risk entailed in implementing new technology,” explains project manager Tore Myhrvold.

Broad industry cooperation
The new qualification procedure for CO2 technology came about through a joint industry project with Aker Solutions, Aker Clean Carbon, StatoilHydro and Statkraft. Gassnova SF, the Norwegian state enterprise for carbon capture and storage, financed a major part of the project.

DNV’s general procedure for such a systematic qualification process is stated in DNV Recommended Practice RP-A203: Qualification Procedures for New Technology. The new development which is specific to CO2 capture has been added to DNV’s RP-A203.

About DNV
DNV is a global provider of risk management services, helping customers to safely and responsibly improve their business performance. DNV is an independent foundation with the purpose of safeguarding life, property and the environment. Through its network of 300 offices in 100 countries, the company serves a range of industries with a special focus on the maritime and energy sectors, combining its technology expertise and industry knowledge.

Due to its in-depth knowledge and role as independent partner, DNV facilitates a great number of standards and joint industry projects each year. The company’s role has for 143 years been to assist in solving the challenges faced by business and society. Developing new tools, methodologies, standards and recommended practices together with industry and the authorities is exactly about solving these challenges.

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