The highlights: a powerful new modelling tool for safeguarding water, refined methods for solvent analysis, and the discovery of previously unknown degradation products. Together, these efforts strengthen the foundations for safer, smarter carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies.

Developing a Modelling Tool to Safeguard Water Near CO₂ Capture Plants

TCM, in collaboration with NIVA and other partners, is developing a dynamic modelling tool to support industry and regulators in protecting drinking water sources near amine-based CO₂ capture facilities.

Amine emissions can lead to the formation of nitrosamines (NSAs) and nitramines (NAs)-potentially carcinogenic compounds that may contaminate lakes and groundwater. This tool will estimate NSA and NA concentrations in nearby water bodies based on measured amine emissions, through:

• An atmospheric dispersion model, verified with in-situ plume measurements
• A catchment model simulating pollutant transport
• Laboratory studies on chemical reaction rates and NA biodegradability
• A web application allowing users to explore different operational scenarios and assess impacts on water quality

The goal is to support better decision-making, ensure compliance with safety limits, and promote the responsible deployment of amine-based CO₂ capture technologies.

👉 Read the paper

Advancing Analytical Tools for CESAR1

The second study presented a new LC-MS/MS method for analyzing degradation products in CESAR1, a leading solvent blend of AMP and PZ. The technique accurately detected and separated several non-volatile degradation compounds from the parent amines—demonstrating high precision, selectivity, and reliability.

This method significantly enhances the ability to monitor solvent health during operations and supports ongoing efforts to optimize process stability and efficiency.

👉 Read the paper

Uncovering Unknown Degradation Compounds

In the third study, researchers analysed CESAR1 samples from pilot operations using industrial flue gases. A total of 35 degradation compounds were identified—12 of them never previously observed in CESAR1, AMP, or PZ.

By combining pilot-scale sampling with laboratory degradation stress tests, the researchers were able to map all major nitrogen-containing compounds in the solvent, helping close one of the most significant knowledge gaps in CO₂ capture chemistry.

The study contributes to the Horizon Europe AURORA project, which aims to improve the environmental performance of advanced capture solvents.

👉 Read the paper

Want to learn more?

Explore how TCM is working to improve solvent degradation and reclaiming: tcmda.com/studies-with-focus-on-amine-components

Today, Alexander is responsible for ensuring that all health-related aspects are addressed in the operation of the facility. He approaches his work with curiosity, creativity, and strong professional integrity – and thrives most when he can work independently on complex issues.

“How did you become part of the TCM team?”

“I joined the team in 2013 as a consultant from Proactima. At the time, I had been working on a project at Equinor Mongstad’s chemical center and found the new operations on the other side of the fence very exciting. I became a permanent employee at TCM at the beginning of 2024.”

“What was your knowledge of carbon capture before you started?”

“I actually knew quite a bit about CO₂ capture using amines from my chemical engineering studies, so the theoretical foundation was solid. But I had no idea back then that a few years later I would be spending my days working with carbon capture technologies and HSE-related challenges connected to it.”

“What’s the most exciting part of your job at TCM?”

“Definitely the variety of tasks. As an occupational hygienist, I constantly have to familiarize myself with new issues and stay professionally updated. Each test campaign raises new questions about operations and chemical handling, requiring both insight and precision. I also enjoy working on approvals and certifications, even though it sometimes involves a lot of paperwork. In addition, I often represent the company in professional forums and during visits from guests focused on risk assessments related to carbon capture.”

“What does a typical workday look like for you?”

“There’s really no such thing as a typical day. With many ongoing projects and “balls in the air,” every day looks different. I mainly work from the office at Mongstad but also have the flexibility to work from home when that’s more practical. TCM gives us a lot of freedom under responsibility – and I really appreciate that.”

“Who do you collaborate with the most, and how does that cooperation work?”

“My job involves contact with many different internal disciplines – from technical experts and the lab to the operators who run the plant. I’m part of the HSE department, led by Pål Venås, and we’re in daily contact. Collaboration at TCM works very well – the expertise I need is always close at hand.”

“What gives you energy and joy at work?”

“The multicultural environment at TCM gives me a lot of energy. I work with people from virtually every corner of the world, and that’s both inspiring and educational. I also get energy from working independently on demanding tasks. Diving into a complex topic is challenging, but all the more rewarding when you find solutions and understand the bigger picture.”

“How do you use your education in your job?”

“The combination of a degree in chemical engineering and a master’s in occupational health and industrial hygiene has proven to be absolutely perfect. It’s actually quite incredible to have a local job here on the west coast of Norway where both of my degrees are so directly relevant.”

“What do your family and friends say about your job?”

“Haha, neither my mother, my siblings, nor my kids fully understand what I do at TCM. You probably have to be “in the loop” to get it. But they know that I enjoy my work and have an exciting job – and that’s the most important thing.”

“What do you see as the biggest challenge in your job?”

“Finding enough time. It’s often difficult to prioritize between tasks that must be done and those I would also really like to take on.”

“If you were to give a colleague a flower, who would it be – and why?”

“There are many at TCM who make an outstanding effort to develop safe and efficient CO₂ capture technologies. But if I had to choose one, it would be our boss, Ismail. He has the most demanding job of all of us and handles it with calm and genuine good humor – even when things get tough.”

“How do you recharge after a long day?

– I often take a 15–20-minute power nap – that gives me enough energy to tackle household chores and follow up with my kids. I also have a leadership role at a boxing club in Knarvik and try to stay in shape through running, cycling, or boxing. And I really value the time I spend with my partner – we have a great relationship.”

“Do you have any specific plans for the future?”

“I hope the transition at TCM moves in the right direction so we can continue developing the company and the important work we do. Personally, I’m also looking forward to more time for my hobbies – and more trips to Tenerife, where my father’s side of the family lives.”

These contributions emphasise TCM’s strategic role in improving the performance and economic viability of post-combustion CO₂ capture technologies.

Through digital modeling, data analysis, and large-scale validation, TCM helps bridge the gap between lab-scale innovations and industrial-scale applications. Process modeling plays a critical role in this work—providing insight into complex system behavior, identifying operational limits, and revealing opportunities for reducing both energy consumption and costs.

Optimizing Plant Operations for Maximum CO₂ Capture

TCM contributed to a scientific article developed by the University of South-Eastern Norway (USN), titled “Optimum Conditions and Maximum Capacity of Amine-Based CO₂ Capture Plant at TCM.” The study explores how the amine-based plant at Mongstad can be optimized for both efficiency and capacity.

Using Aspen Plus to simulate real-world operational scenarios, the research team developed a robust, rate-based model calibrated with data from TCM’s test campaigns.

Key findings include:

• An optimal configuration that uses maximum gas flow, both CHP and RFCC strippers, and a 15% rich-solvent bypass.
• This setup achieved a CO₂ removal efficiency of 90% with a specific reboiler duty of just 3.0 MJ/kg CO₂.
• For maximum throughput, the plant can operate with an amine flow of 230 tons per hour, capturing up to 98% of CO₂.

“These results are vital for the global CCS community,” says Koteswara Rao Putta, Technical Services Lead and Project Coordinator at TCM, and one of the paper’s three authors. “They show how full-scale facilities like TCM not only validate capture technologies but also help identify ways to reduce energy use and improve scalability.”

He also highlights the value of TCM’s collaboration with academic institutions, which plays a key role in transferring industrial process knowledge to students and strengthening CCS expertise at the university level.

👉 Read the article

Modeling CESAR1: Understanding and Managing Uncertainty

The second study, “Modeling and Uncertainty Quantification of CESAR1 Solvent System,” focuses on simulating the performance of the CESAR1 solvent—a blend of AMP and piperazine, known for its high efficiency and low energy requirements.

This research combines process modeling with uncertainty quantification (UQ) to assess how variations in key input parameters—such as flue gas composition or solvent flow rate—impact overall performance. UQ techniques, including sensitivity analysis, help identify the most influential variables, enabling more robust and cost-effective plant design.

Such insights are essential for reliably scaling up capture processes and making informed decisions in the design of next generation capture facilities. The study offers valuable tools for engineering optimization and risk reduction.

Together, these studies demonstrate the power of advanced modeling and validation in de-risking CO₂ capture technologies. By integrating full-scale operational experience with detailed simulation, TCM continues to provide critical knowledge that supports global efforts to accelerate decarbonization.

👉 Read the article

These two studies demonstrate how advanced modelling and full-scale validation can reduce the risk associated with carbon capture technologies. By combining operational experience with rigorous simulations, TCM continues to provide valuable insights that accelerate the global transition to a low-carbon economy.

“Operational testing at TCM plays a crucial role in bridging the gap between laboratory research and commercial implementation. By thoroughly evaluating new capture technologies under real industrial conditions, we generate reliable data that the global CCS community can trust,” says Matthew Campbell, Technical Manager at TCM. He emphasizes that TCM only shares data from the open test campaigns at the facility.

The following three studies presented at GHGT-17 highlight TCM’s efforts to accelerate CO₂ capture innovation through large-scale testing, industry collaboration, and open knowledge sharing:

Pilot-Scale Testing of Metal Organic Frameworks (MOFs) for Post-Combustion CO₂ Capture at TCM

This study examined the use of large-scale synthesized aluminum-based MOFs for CO₂ capture from TCM’s flue gases. Integrated into a 3-column Vacuum Pressure Swing Adsorption (VPSA) pilot plant, the MOFs demonstrated promising CO₂ recovery and purity levels. The results highlight the potential of MOFs to enhance capture efficiency.
👉 Read the article

Demonstration of Latest CANSOLV CO₂ Capture Technology Advancements at TCM

This paper described Shell’s customized post-combustion CO₂ solvent formulations and amine regeneration processes tested at TCM.
👉 Read the article

Demonstration of ION’s Novel CO₂ Capture Solvent (ICE-31) at TCM’s Amine Plant with Transformational Deep Decarbonization and CO₂ Capture Co-Benefit Results

Over 4,000 operational hours, ION’s ICE-31 solvent was tested on multiple flue gas sources, achieving up to 98% CO₂ capture efficiency. The article summarizes experiences from the company’s second test campaign at TCM in 2024.
👉 Read the article

These studies underscore TCM’s commitment to accelerating CO₂ capture solutions through full-scale testing, industry collaboration, and knowledge sharing.
👉 Read more at TCM’s collection overview

In 2008, Ali joined TotalEnergies and 4 years later he was assigned to the company’s headquarters in Paris. Since then, his career has taken him to various countries around the world, and he now works at Technology Centre Mongstad (TCM) in Norway.

“I’m grateful for the chance to work on so many different projects and to experience so many cultures. Just nine more years like this, and the sweet retirement awaits,” he says with a smile.

Ali Milani at his office, leading TCM’s CO₂ Liquefaction, Transport, and Storage project.

“How did you become part of the TCM team?”

“I’m employed by TotalEnergies, one of the owners of TCM, and joined the center on a secondment.”

“How was your move to Norway?”

“The move itself was straightforward, but establishing residency came with quite a bit of bureaucracy. It took more than six months to get my social security number and open a bank account.”

“What surprised you most about Norwegian culture?”

“I’d been to Norway before and knew people speak excellent English. Work culture is very straightforward, and everyone is polite and helpful. But socially, life can feel a bit isolating — it’s not easy to make friends.”

“What inspired you to work in carbon capture?”

“My background is in petrochemicals and oil and gas, so this was a great opportunity to pivot into something new and good for the planet.”

“How has your education prepared you for your role at TCM?”

“I studied chemical engineering at one of Iran’s top universities. The fundamentals are directly applicable to carbon capture and storage.”

“What’s the most exciting aspect of your job at TCM?”

“Getting things done. There’s always a lot going on, and it’s satisfying to see real progress every day.”

“Can you tell us about the project you’re working on?”

“I’m leading the CO₂ Liquefaction, Transport, and Storage project. We’ve just completed the initial phase and are preparing to enter Front-End Engineering Design (FEED). In under three months, we built the team, issued the tender, and signed the contract — a major achievement. We’re on schedule.”

“What do your family and friends think about your job?”

“Life is good for my family. My work supports us, and they’re happy.”

“What gives you energy at work?”

“Knowing that we’re making progress and that the project is under control.”

“What’s the biggest challenge in your work?”

“We don’t yet have a fully experienced execution team. But there’s a lot of talent here, and we’re learning together. Another challenge is that many team members are part-time due to other priorities. Going forward, we’ll need a fully dedicated project team.”

“If you were to give a flower to a colleague, who would it be—and why?”

“To all of them. Everyone contributes and does a great job.”

“What do you value most in your colleagues at TCM?”

“TCM is a small company with less bureaucracy, which means we can move faster. But above all, it’s the friendliness and collaborative spirit that make a real difference.”

“How do you recharge after a long day?”

“A nap on the bus ride back to Bergen!”

“What advice would you give to someone considering a move to Norway or a career in carbon capture?”

“If you’re interested in CCS, Norway is the best place to be. The country has invested heavily in the field, and the results are impressive. Once you’re settled, life here is peaceful and fulfilling — especially for families. Children also benefit from a great education system.”

“What are your future plans?”

“To keep working hard until retirement — and then travel as much as possible. As an expat, I’ll probably live and work in a few more countries before I wrap up my career, and that sounds great to me.”

Written from the owners’ perspective, the paper details TCM’s role in maturing capture technologies and reducing deployment risks.

TCM`s technology history

Established in 2012, TCM is a public-private partnership between Gassnova  (on behalf of the Norwegian State), Equinor, Shell , and TotalEnergies. Its mission has been to develop, test, and verify CO₂ capture technologies for wide-scale application.

Among TCM’s key achievements are open test campaigns using non-proprietary solvents (MEA and CESAR-1), the world’s first emissions permit addressing health risks from amine-based CO₂ capture, and more than 70 scientific publications.

In 2021, TCM expanded with the Site for Emerging Technologies (SET), designed to test less mature technologies such as membranes and adsorbents. Five campaigns have already been conducted, four of them under EU or U.S. DOE projects.

“SET has lowered the barrier for innovation and helped bring new technologies closer to market. The knowledge and confidence gained benefit the entire CCS community,” Shah adds.

Key role in the Longship project

TCM also plays a key role in Norway’s Longship project, where both full scale capture plants have selected technologies previously tested at the Mongstad facility.

“Building on the already very useful results, there are still opportunities for continuing supporting CO₂ capture deployment at TCM today. In conclusion, TCM is a successful public-private partnership on the development of a climate change mitigation technology”.

Read the full article:
18 Years of Public-Private Partnership for Developing Post-Combustion CO₂ Capture at Technology Centre Mongstad in Norway

With a background from the Navy and a master’s degree in logistics and economics, Julian is passionate about technology and efficiency, as well as creating a safe and happy life for his family.

“How did you become part of the TCM team?”

“I got a temporary position as a controller at TCM while working at PwC and was quickly impressed by both the organization and the people at Mongstad. When I was offered a permanent position in a combined role as Business Developer and Controller, I gladly accepted. The company has a digital work culture, and as a new dad, it’s perfect to have Jessheim as my base rather than commuting three hours a day to Oslo. I travel to Mongstad about three days a month and attend conferences and customer meetings otherwise. I really value the flexibility that TCM offers.”

“What did you know about carbon capture before joining?”

“I was familiar with the term, but not the details. I’ve always been interested in technology, climate, and the environment – ever since my school days. I enjoy learning new things, and TCM gives me plenty of opportunities to do just that.”

“What’s the most exciting part of your job, Julian?”

“As a Business Developer, I meet customers and attend conferences and seminars. I spend a lot of time understanding their challenges related to CO₂ capture – whether it’s in process industries, cement production, energy, or waste management. It’s both exciting and inspiring to learn about what different companies do.”

“But you don’t have a technical background – is that a challenge?”

“Absolutely! I was recently in Athens for meetings with cement producers. Technical questions came up that I couldn’t answer alone. That’s when it’s great to lean on colleagues with chemistry and engineering backgrounds – many with PhDs. No one knows more about carbon capture than our Tech team and my manager, Rouzbeh Jafari. I’m a fast learner and apply my background in logistics and economics – which is very relevant in carbon capture too.”

“What does a typical workday look like for you?”

“When working from home, I have structured office days with digital meetings, planning customer visits to TCM, and ongoing market monitoring and follow-up. I stay updated via newsletters and social media to catch opportunities and trends relevant to us. I’m also involved in project work that requires focus and deep concentration – and it’s perfect that I’mrarely interrupted.”

“Doesn’t working from home get lonely?”

“Not really. Our customers are spread all over the world. And if I miss my colleagues, it’s easy to jump on a digital coffee chat. For now, my wife is also home with our newborn daughter, so we often have lunch together. Time zones can be a challenge, but we manage well – both Rouzbeh and our CTO Matthew work from Canada, and we have solid routines for cross-time-zone collaboration.”

“Who do you collaborate with the most?”

“Mostly with Rouzbeh in Business Development. Our main task is to generate new business for TCM. I also have a controller role in Finance and Administration, including responsibility for follow-up on EU-funded test campaigns in collaboration with the finance and project teams.”

“What gives you energy and joy at work?”

“Great colleagues! It’s satisfying when I’m asked to help solve specific challenges. TCM isn’t a large company, so cross-functional collaboration is both necessary and important – and I really enjoy that. When I’m at Mongstad, I also try to take part in social events.”

“How has your education and experience been useful at TCM?”

“My military background is very helpful – especially when it comes to dealing With uncertainty, learning quickly, and working purposefully. The discipline and teamwork I developed there are valuable. As a former elite swimmer, I’ve also brought my interest in health and the environment with me – which led to me becoming a vegetarian. Each of us can contribute to a cleaner planet – whether it’s through our diet, electric cars, solar panels, or carbon capture.”

“What do your family and friends say about your job?”

“Many of the people in my circle are interested in climate and the green transition. Even though TCM works in a niche field, they think my job is both important and exciting – and they’re fascinated that it all happens out at windswept Mongstad!”

“What’s the biggest challenge in your job?”

“Technology development is demanding and risky. Convincing customers of the benefits of carbon capture can be tough – because it often requires big investments and extensive planning. But with the expertise TCM has, we can help industry players make smart decisions and become better buyers of technology solutions. I truly believe in the services we provide.”

“If you were to give a colleague a flower – who and why?”

“I’d highlight our HSE Manager, Pål Venås. He’s a warm person who sees others, collaborates well, and contributes to a great working environment. And he always makes me smile and laugh 😊

“Julian, How do you recharge after work?”

“Right now, sleep is high on the wish list – with a little one in the house! When things settle down, I enjoy spending time with my family, playing and relaxing, working out, having a good meal, and maybe a movie or series before bed.”

“What are your plans for the future?”

“Personally, I hope our family thrives and that we live an active life filled with good experiences in nature. Professionally, I want to help TCM continue to develop as a competent and sustainable player in the green transition. The world is changing fast – and we must continuously adjust course to meet industry needs and contribute to solutions that benefit the climate and environment.”

Like potatoes – they can be used for almost anything, and that’s precisely what makes them indispensable.

For Gøril, the desire for new challenges led her to TCM. After 15 years at the same workplace, she was ready for a change. A job listing caught her attention, and by the summer of 2024, she had joined TCM as an Office Administrator.

Jorun, on the other hand, has been with TCM much longer. She started in 2013 as a hired consultant and has been permanently employed as a Project Controller since January 1, 2024. “My workdays are varied and fun,” she says, emphasizing how great it has been to have Gøril join the team.

Gøril (left) and Jorun always start the day with a little pep talk — a routine that sets the tone for the rest of the workday.

Daily Life at TCM

A typical day for Gøril consists of a range of administrative tasks. She coordinates visits, orders refreshments for meetings, sends agreements for signing, creates Teams channels, monitors shared inboxes, and even waters the plants. “I’m a little bit everywhere,” she says with a laugh.

Jorun, for her part, works with cost tracking, monthly reporting, financial follow-up of projects, budgeting, and procurement-related tasks, but the two work closely together on a daily basis. They always start the day with a little pep talk – a routine that sets the tone for the rest of the workday.

Exciting Experiences

Both appreciate the international environment at TCM, even though it sometimes presents language challenges. Gøril admits she was nervous about speaking English again after many years but has found her own solution: “I prefer to speak Norwegian, and several colleagues are learning the language along with me!”

Among the most memorable experiences, Jorun highlights Crown Prince Haakon’s visit to Mongstad in March last year. “I served him coffee with both hands – just to make sure I didn’t spill,” she says with a smile. “It was a big day with a lot of preparation, but everything went smoothly.”

CO₂ Capture and the Core Mission

As administrative staff, they are not directly involved in technology testing, but both see the value of TCM’s work. “Carbon capture is an important part of the solution to climate change,” says Gøril. “Even if I don’t understand all the technical details, I know we are contributing to a better future.”

Jorun agrees. She finds that many in the local community are familiar with the facility and its activities, often referring to it as the so-called “moon landing.” “I often have to explain that we have actually helped develop technologies that are now being used at full scale for CO₂ capture.”

Job Satisfaction and Frustrations

What gives them the most energy at work? For Gøril, it’s about getting things done. “When I can check tasks off my list, I’m satisfied. And, of course, my colleagues!”

Jorun appreciates the well-established routinesthat ensure everything runs smoothly. At the same time, she finds it frustrating when complex regulations make processes unnecessarily cumbersome.

Flowers for Good Colleagues

If they were to give a flower to a colleague, the choice would be easy. Gøril would give hers to Jorun: “She is always positive, helps me with everything, and has answers to most questions. Everyone should have a Jorun!”

Jorun, in turn, would give flowers to Sara in the cafeteria and Linda, who handles cleaning. “They do a fantastic job in making this place a pleasant environment.”

Recharging the Batteries

To unwind after busy workdays, both turn to nature. Gøril loves going for walks, preferably with an audiobook in her ears. Jorun does much of the same. Both have recently become grandparents and thoroughly enjoy spending time with the little ones.

Dreams and Future Plans

Gøril dreams of traveling more. “Italy, France, the Alps – I want to experience new places,” she says. And, of course, she looks forward to spending time with her grandchild.

Jorun also has the travel bug. “This year, we are planning a trip to Northern Norway. But I wouldn’t say no to a getaway to warmer climates either,” she adds with a smile.

Together, they aim to keep the wheels turning at TCM. They are flexible, solution-oriented, and always ready to step up – and they can take on just about anything, just like the potato.

Kathrine joined TCM in 2024 as Team Leader Operation and Maint, bringing with her a wealth of experience from the oil and gas industry. The 44-year-old thrives in a fast-paced environment where close collaboration is key and expectations for the results of CO₂ capture tests are high.

Kathrine Sætre has broad experience from the oil and gas industry. Last year, she started in the position of Team Leader Operation and Maint at TCM. “More people need to gain insight into the important work being done here, and how much it means in the fight against climate change,” she says in this interview.

“How did you become part of the TCM team?”

“I participated in Equinor’s leadership development program for first-line managers, where I was challenged to apply for the shift leader position at TCM. It was an exciting opportunity, so I jumped at the chance!”

“What did you know about TCM before you started?”

“I knew that Equinor had a strong focus on CO₂ reduction and the green shift, but I didn’t know much about what TCM was doing, other than that they worked with carbon capture technology. Now that I’m here, I find it incredibly rewarding to be part of something so important, concrete, and forward-looking.”

“What is the most exciting part of your job, Kathrine?”

“I enjoy taking responsibility for planning across departments and contributing to collaboration in a compact, competent organization. Staffing is like a puzzle that must be put together again and again, and it’s both challenging and interesting. When we run campaigns with customers testing new technology, it’s especially exciting to see how the operations team solves complex test matrices.”

“What does a typical workday look like for you?”

“The day starts with a conversation with the control room about the night’s operations and any challenges. Then, we have a morning meeting with the various departments. The rest of the day is spent on a lot of collaboration, risk assessments, planning, and execution.”

“How does your education and experience benefit your job?”

“I have vocational certificates as both a process technician and a lab technician, and I’ve worked both offshore and on land. This helps me understand the workday and challenges from the operators’ perspective. Additionally, I’ve been responsible for apprentices, which has given me experience in planning, follow-up, and relationship-building – all of which come in handy as a shift leader.”

“Is there a project you’re particularly proud of?”

“I haven’t been at TCM for very long. The Honeywell campaign, which recently concluded, was my first full test. There were many challenges both before and after the campaign, especially with the solvent. I was really impressed by how skilled everyone here is and how much valuable knowledge they brought from previous campaigns, which helped solve both small and bigger challenges.”

“Who do you work most closely with?”

“I mostly work with shift personnel, leadership, and the technical department. I think we collaborate really well – there are a lot of talented people here, and we achieve a lot together.”

“How do you experience being a woman in a male-dominated work environment?”

“I’ve never really seen it as a problem. I’ve worked with men since I was 18, and I enjoy it. They often think a bit differently than women, and that can be both useful and fun.”

“What brings you the most joy and energy at work?”

“Humor and laughter! And when we solve challenges together as a team and see good ideas come to life.”

“What do you think is the biggest challenge in your job?”

“It’s making the staffing puzzle work, especially with a small operations team. If someone is absent, we’re vulnerable.”

“If you could give a flower to a colleague, who would get it?”

“I would give a big flower to those who work 24/7, who are away from their families during weekends and holidays. They were also incredibly patient when I started, sharing their knowledge freely. I’m really grateful for that support.”

“What do your family and friends say about your job?”

“Most don’t know much about TCM, but they think it sounds exciting. Many still mention “the moon landing” – that still lingers! That’s why it’s important to highlight that technology testing at Mongstad has been crucial for realizing the Longship project, with full-scale CO₂ capture at the cement plant in Brevik being the first step. The same applies to many other CCS projects around the world. CO₂ capture and storage is essential for meeting the goals of the Paris Agreement. More people need to be aware of the important work happening at TCM and how much it means in the fight against climate change.”

“How do you recharge after a long day?”

“After work, it’s all about family, our dog Nala, exercise, hiking, and a bit of gardening. I like to stay active but also enjoy quiet moments.”

“Do you have any dreams for the future?”

“First and foremost, I hope my children will have a safe and good future. For myself, the most important thing is to be able to do a good job and stay healthy. But I also dream of backpacking through South America for three to four months. That would be a once-in-a-lifetime experience!”

“I know myself well—I get excited when given a new mission. I always want to give my best, exceed expectations, and continuously learn and improve,” Ticiane shares in this interview.

Ticiane Silva de Oliveira: “Many people my age quickly get tired of their job and start looking for something new, but I can’t imagine that happening at TCM.”

“How did you become part of the TCM team?”

“I started working at TCM one day a week in 2023 as a Data Analyst for the MOF4AIR project. From the very beginning, I was impressed by TCM’s efficiency in communication—both internally and externally, which creates such a productive work environment. I remember coming home and spending hours telling my boyfriend how well-organized everything was, how brilliant my colleagues were, and how incredible it felt to work alongside some of the biggest names in the field”

“How was your move from Brazil to Norway?”

“I arrived in Norway just before COVID-19, so you can imagine it wasn’t easy. I questioned my decision many times, but with the borders closed, I didn’t have much of a choice. Being far from my family in those early years was extremely difficult, but at the same time, I felt safe in Norway, which handled the pandemic remarkably well.”

“What surprised you most about Norwegian culture and behavior?”

“What surprised me the most was how Norwegians handle the harsh weather. They go outside no matter what, and when asked, they say, ‘Det finnes ikke dårlig vær, bare dårlige klær’ (There’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing). Their resilience is impressive, and I hope that one day I’ll be able to do the same.”

“What inspired you to work with carbon capture?”

“I have always been passionate about green technologies, but my interest in carbon capture specifically developed after moving to Bergen for my master’s program and working with MOF materials. From there, it didn’t take long for me to learn about TCM and become inspired by the exciting work being done here.”

“How has your education prepared you for your role at TCM?”

“Although my studies weren’t specifically focused on CO₂ capture, I have always shaped my career around green chemistry and sustainable alternatives. The biggest influence on my decision to pursue this path was my master’s research project, the incredible people I met along the way, and the fortunate timing of being in the right place at the right time.”

“What is the most exciting aspect of your job at TCM?”

“The most exciting part of my job is its dynamic nature and the constant learning it offers. People of my generation often get bored at work and move on quickly, but I can’t imagine that happening at TCM. Every project brings new challenges, new lessons, and continuous improvement.

Another aspect I love about TCM is its unique combination of an industrial site and a research environment. I have a deep appreciation for both academic work and industrial applications, and at TCM, I get to experience the best of both worlds.”

“Can you share a specific project at TCM that you’re particularly proud of?”

“Absolutely! The MOF4AIR project, funded by Horizon 2020, the European Union’s research and innovation program, stands out for me. During my master’s, I learned that TCM was one of the three demonstration sites for this project. I was eager to understand how the work we were doing in the lab would be scaled up to an industrial level.

I reached out to TCM, arranged a visit, and had the incredible opportunity to receive a VIP tour from Anette Knarvik. The experience was so inspiring that I decided to apply for an internship on this project.

Today, I have learned so much from MOF4AIR. It was a great project to start my journey in CO₂ capture. We work hard to achieve the best results for this promising technology while also actively documenting and generating knowledge to support its further development. It makes me proud to collaborate with and learn from experts like Richard Blom, Guy De Weireld, and Shreenath Krishnamurthy—professionals I looked up to during my master’s program.”

“What do your family and friends say about your job?”

“To be honest, most of my friends don’t fully understand what I do. Some even assume I work in oil and gas because of TCM’s proximity to the Equinor refinery. I make a point of explaining the distinction. While post-combustion capture is currently the dominant technology, CO₂ capture has a much broader scope, with applications in areas like BECCS and DAC.

I believe it’s important for the general public to better understand CO₂ capture for what it truly is—an immediate and crucial solution for the energy transition period, rather than an excuse to continue fossil fuel exploitation.”

“What gives you energy and joy at work?”

“The people, of course! The team at TCM is amazing. We meticulously plan together before each project, collaborate closely during test campaigns, and celebrate every milestone as a team. TCM has the best working environment I have ever been a part of.”

“What do you think is the biggest challenge in your work?”

“Not necessarily as a CO₂ capture technologist, but personally, my biggest challenge is being a workaholic.

In my previous job at Envir AS, I was tasked with creating a construction materials testing laboratory from scratch. I love challenges, so I fully committed, dedicating immense time and energy to the project. However, I didn’t realize how much it was consuming me until my boyfriend and colleagues pointed out that I was overworking myself at the expense of my personal life.

I know myself well—I get excited when given a new mission. I always want to give my best, exceed expectations, and continuously learn and improve. My greatest challenge will be maintaining a healthy work-life balance while staying passionate about what I do.”

“If you were to give a colleague a flower, who would it be—and why?”

“As I mentioned, I’m a workaholic, and that trait comes from my parents. They taught my siblings and me to always give our best and strive to be a reference in our field. With that in mind, I’d have to give flowers to two colleagues: Helge Ulvatn and Magnus Aronsson.

Both are true role models at TCM—exceptional at what they do, always willing to share their knowledge, and consistently supporting the team. I truly admire them, and I hope to reach their level one day.”

“What do you value most about your colleagues at TCM?”

“What I value most is their support and how they make my learning process so seamless. There’s no such thing as a silly question, every comment and idea is heard and taken seriously. We truly work as a team, and the horizontal hierarchy at TCM makes collaboration even more effective.”

“How do you recharge after a long day at work?”

“Oh, that’s a tough one! I’m a city girl, so for me, recharging used to mean going out—cinema, parties, dinner with friends, hiking up Fløyen or Ulriken, sunbathing at Gamlehaugen, or swimming in Nordnes.

But in January this year, my boyfriend and I moved to Manger to be closer to Mongstad, and I’ve had to completely rethink how I recharge. Right now, house renovations keep me occupied, but sooner or later, I know I’ll need to find a hobby—otherwise, I might go crazy in this peaceful countryside life!”

“What advice would you give to someone considering a move to Norway or a career in carbon capture?”

“My best advice? It won’t be easy, but don’t give up. Get your dose of vitamin D, find some Latino friends to keep the energy up, and invest in proper rain gear—you’ll need it! And if you happen to find yourself a handsome and romantic French boyfriend, that helps too. Highly recommended!”