At the heart of this endeavor lies the selection and utilization of an optimal solvent, a pivotal element determining the success of CO₂ capture processes. But what exactly is a solvent, and what are the prerequisites for its efficacy?

The cornerstone of CO₂ capture

In principle, a solvent act as the cornerstone of CO₂ capture, facilitating the separation of CO₂ from flue gases with utmost efficiency and cost-effectiveness. For technology providers, identifying a solvent that balances high performance with reduced risks and costs is paramount. This quest culminates in rigorous testing and development, ensuring that the selected solvent technology attains a required level of maturity before deployment.

A beacon of innovation and expertise

Enter Technology Centre Mongstad (TCM), a beacon of innovation and expertise for solvent technology developers. TCM serves as the crucible where pioneering solvent technologies undergo meticulous scrutiny and validation. To qualify for testing at TCM’s Amine plant, technologies must achieve a Technology Readiness Level (TRL) of 6 or above, signifying readiness for commercial deployment post-TMC testing.

Moreover, TCM’s commitment to innovation extends beyond solvent-based technologies, to explore emerging technologies such as solid-based alternatives at lower TRL levels (3-4). Through its Site for Emerging Technologies, TCM provides fertile ground for experimentation and innovation, fostering the evolution of cutting-edge CO₂ capture solutions.

Full control is essential

In the competitive landscape of CO₂ capture, alongside stringent solvent hygiene practices, grasp over the entire capture process is imperative. Herein lies TCM’s strength, with unparalleled capabilities tailored to meet the diverse needs of technology developers. TCM has over 4000 online instruments and 100 sampling points meticulously tracking the CO₂ capture process, coupled with state-of-the-art laboratory services. Through rigorous procedures TCM ensures comprehensive oversight and validation of results. In addition, through our trusted and competent collaboration with other market leaders such as SINTEF (video greeting below), TCM can provide third party verification to ensure the quality of the results obtained.

TCM provides invaluable support

TCM’s pivotal role extends beyond mere testing; its seasoned staff, armed with a wealth of experience accumulated over 12 years of operation, provide invaluable support to technology developers. From initial consultations to campaign execution, TCM collaborates closely with technology vendors, unraveling the intricacies of solvent behavior and offering guidance on solvent management and waste handling.

In a nutshell, TCM stands as a shining example of collaboration and innovation, propelling the frontier of solvent technology development and fostering a sustainable future. Through its unwavering commitment to excellence and expertise, TCM continues to pave the way for advancement in CO₂ capture technologies.

On the slightly cloudy day, CEO Muhammad Ismail Shah welcomed the Minister of Climate and Environment, Andreas Bjelland Eriksen to the Technology Centre in Mongstad. Also in the entourage was the Mayor of Alver Municipality, Sara Hamre Sekkingstad and the Mayor for Austrheim, Morten Sognnes. Earlier in the day, they visited the Mongstad refinery and received an introduction to Mongstad Industrial Transformation (MIT).

TCM an important part of the green transition

“Here at TCM, we test and verify carbon capture technology in a unique environment where knowledge sharing and advice are paramount,” said TCM’s CEO. “After more than 12 years of operation, we can look back on a wide range of major international technology suppliers who have come here to test and learn. TCM is an attractive location thanks to its unique and flexible infrastructure and world-leading expertise. Our offering is essential in a global context.

Shah added that it is a great tribute to the knowledge environment at Mongstad that several of the major technology developers come back once or twice to de-risk the technology before it can be put into industrial use. – All the major technology suppliers that have tested at TCM are now conducting feed studies and are ready to offer their technology to various projects around the world. The Longship project is one such example, as Heidelberg Materials has chosen to use Aker Carbon Capture’s TCM-tested technology.

For a better climate

The Minister for Climate and Environment was very engaged during the tour of TCM and asked many relevant questions. At the end of the visit, he thanked the Minister for having gained a better understanding of CO₂ capture and how this climate measure could make a difference for the industry in the world. Bjelland Eriksen expressed that he is impressed by the work being carried out at TCM and said that he will promote the activities that are taking place with great professional breadth at the Mongstad site.

Since it was established in 2012, TCM has supported more than 20 different technologies. Together with the technology suppliers, we have looked at how different solvents support the process of capturing CO₂. TCM staff work every day to develop the capture technology. Our flexible flue gas is a key element.

 

Enhancing Carbon Capture Research at TCM with Versatile Flue Gas Sources

At Technology Centre Mongstad (TCM), groundbreaking strides in carbon capture technology and emissions reduction are underway, fueled by the invaluable resource of flue gases provided by Equinor’s Mongstad refinery. These flue gases not only offer a testing ground but also a realm of possibilities for exploring diverse CO₂ concentrations, ranging from 1%- 20%. Such flexibility empowers TCM to delve into a myriad of industry applications, including conditions for various industry applications, such as steel and cement type flue gases.

Traditionally, TCM has been supplied with flue gases from various sources, each contributing uniquely to its research endeavors. The journey began with the Combined Heat and Power plant (CHP), operating on a combined cycle gas turbine (CCGT), which ceased operation in 2022. This plant, fueled by a blend of natural gas and refinery fuel gas, facilitated the capture of approximately 80 tonnes of CO₂/day, with a CO₂ content typically ranging from 3.5 to 3.7 mole%.

An unparalleled testing environment

The transition post-2022 saw the emergence of the Mongstad Heat Plant (MHP), ushering in a new era of flue gas testing. With the closure of the CHP plant, Equinor’s strategic modifications introduced a steam boiler together with revamped waste heat recovery unit. This unit provides MHP flue gas. The CO₂ content in MHP gas ranges from 8-9 mole%, expanding TCM’s testing capabilities to simulate conditions akin to steel and cement flue gases, with concentrations of up to 20 vol% CO₂ achievable through product recycling.

Furthermore, the residual fluid catalytic cracker (RFCC) at the refinery stands as another significant source of flue gas, providing CO₂ concentrations of up to 13-14 mole%. The amine plant, with a processing capacity of approximately 40000 to 45000 Sm³/h, captures around 200 tonnes of CO₂ per day from this source, enriching TCM’s research portfolio with yet another dimension of exploration.

In essence, the convergence of these diverse flue gas sources equips TCM with an unparalleled testing environment, propelling advancements in carbon capture technology and emissions reduction. As TCM continues its quest for sustainability and innovation, the synergy between Equinor’s refinery operations and TCM’s research initiatives promises a brighter, greener future for industries worldwide.

Mix different concentrations and compositions

TCM uses two industrial sources of flue gas: Equinor’s residue cracker at the Mongstad refinery (13 per cent CO₂) and the associated Mongstad Heat Plant (MHP) (8-9 per cent CO₂). These two flue gas sources make it possible to simulate emissions from different industries, such as cement production, steel, waste management and oil refining. TCM can mix different concentrations and compositions from these two sources. This is unique in a global context and means that more people will be able to come to us to test how their technology works under different conditions.

“However, with the refinery at Mongstad nearing its 50th anniversary, its longevity is under scrutiny. Consequently, we are spearheading several transformative projects aimed at fostering sustainable and lucrative production, thereby bolstering regional employment and prosperity.”

Assuming the helm of Equinor Refining Norway at the dawn of the year, Bernt E. Tysseland now leads a workforce of approximately 900 employees. With an annual refining capacity of 12 million tons, the facility receives 40 percent of Norway’s crude oil production from its continental shelf. Its principal outputs encompass gasoline, diesel oil, jet fuel, and other light petroleum derivatives, predominantly destined for international markets.

Equinor Mongstad also supplies the flue gas that TCM uses for testing CO₂ capture technologies and is responsible for the operation of the facility.

”Equinor is therefore one of the few companies in the world with practical experience in operating a CO₂ capture facility. We have extensive offshore experience in capturing and storing CO₂, and carbon capture and storage (CCS) is important for many of our projects. Therefore, we are very pleased that TCM is secured for further operation, and that Equinor’s ownership stake has increased. We hope TCM will succeed in developing the business on commercial terms. Not everyone is fortunate enough to have a world-leading neighbor in CO₂ capture technology. TCM is of crucial importance for Equinor’s own insight and expertise in carbon capture and storage”, emphasizes Tysseland.

To cut emissions by 850,000 tons of CO₂

This expertise will be important for guiding the industry at Mongstad through the green shift.

”By 2030, Norway aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 55 percent, compared to 1992. At the same time, we cannot stop all production of fossil energy, because there will still be needs that must be met. But there will be lower demand for several products delivered from Equinor Mongstad, especially gasoline. Therefore, it is important that the facility considers what opportunities it has to adapt to the future market,” says Tysseland.

Equinor aims to reduce the company’s CO₂ emissions by 50 percent, and to achieve this goal, there must be reductions in emissions both from the seabed and from point sources on land. ”Mongstad is unfortunately in a somewhat unique position with nearly 1.7 million tons of CO₂ emissions annually, which is about 3 percent of Norway’s total emissions. We have demonstrated the ability to adapt, and already deliver bio-products. We have also been working on energy efficiency for a long time, but this is far from enough.” Tysseland says the goal for Equinor Mongstad is to halve the facility’s CO₂ emissions.

Mongstad Industrial Transformation (MIT)

”We have looked at various ways to do this, and concluded that decarbonization of the fuel gas we need for boilers and furnaces used in our processes is the best and most sustainable, and that this is best achieved through the production of blue hydrogen. In this way, we can decarbonize the gas and obtain a product with virtually zero emissions, while maintaining the production of petroleum-based products we need in a supply situation. We will still have emissions from the cracker as long as it is in production. At the same time, we will increase the production of biomass, and thereby reduce emissions. But we will continue to supply the flue gas TCM needs for testing carbon capture technologies”, he assures.

This project is called Mongstad Industrial Transformation (MIT), which requires the establishment of a hydrogen plant of a certain size and capacity.

Factory for the production of blue hydrogen

Tysseland explains that Mongstad now, regardless of MIT, is one of two possible Equinor locations for a large hydrogen plant – for the export of hydrogen to Europe. This is being worked on in the Clean Hydrogen to Europe (CHE) project, where the other location option is Kollsnes in Øygarden. This project is in an early stage, and there is a long way to go before any investment decision. Regardless of this, Equinor therefore sees the opportunity for development at Mongstad using hydrogen.

”The establishment of a hydrogen plant, regardless of size, will require us to capture the CO₂ and store it. A blue hydrogen production facility has great opportunities for downstream hydrogen-based industries, such as blue ammonia, especially for use in the maritime sector”, he says.

Giant project for CO₂ storage

Two years ago, Equinor was granted a license to plan the expansion of capacity for CO₂ storage at the Smeaheia field, east of the Troll field in the North Sea, to 20 million tons annually. This implies a significant increase in the capacity to store CO₂ on a commercial basis on the Norwegian continental shelf. Northern Lights, the CO₂ storage facility in the Langskip project, has a planned injection capacity of 1.5 million tons per year in phase 1 with startup in 2025, and can later be expanded to 5-6 million tons per year.

”Developing CO₂ transport and storage quickly and on a large scale is crucial for Europe to achieve its climate goals. Smeaheia is a CO₂ transport and storage project that connects large CO₂ transport solutions in Northwest Europe to the enormous reservoir beneath the seabed in the North Sea. The project considers both a CO₂ pipeline and transport of CO₂ by ship. The Smeaheia project is based on a shipping terminal at Sture in Øygarden, but there is also work being done on a separate CO₂ transport solution for Mongstad.

Needs competitive framework conditions

For the projects included in MIT, Equinor is now conducting preparatory work, where during the year, a decision will be made whether to conduct a feasibility study with a process line.

”The prerequisite for moving forward will be that MIT, in total, is profitable. For that, we need a clear political acceptance of blue hydrogen as an energy carrier. But we also need access to enough power, and then we need predictable regulatory development in line with the EU.”

Tysseland points out that carbon capture and storage (CCS) as a means of reducing CO₂ emissions is not directly profitable today without risk mitigation to support these investments. He is more optimistic about sustainable industrial development, but it requires access to hydrogen.

”As Equinor embarks on transformative endeavors like the Mongstad Industrial Transformation (MIT), conducive regulatory frameworks and robust political support emerge as imperative prerequisites. The viability of such initiatives hinges upon unequivocal acknowledgment of blue hydrogen’s role as an energy carrier, coupled with sustained investment in infrastructure and regulatory alignment with EU standards”, emphasizes the head of Equinor Mongstad.

”To translate aspirations into tangible outcomes, collaborative efforts between industry stakeholders, governmental bodies, and local communities become indispensable. By fostering synergistic partnerships and prioritizing sustainable development, we can chart a course towards enduring prosperity for Norway, the West Coast, and the Mongstad region.”

Pål Venås joined TCM as an HSE engineer in May last year. He has since been appointed HSE/QR manager assuming responsibility for ensuring the vision of zero incidents affecting the life and health of personnel working at the plant is realized.

“Our HSE statistics are very positive because preventing unwanted incidents is part of the organisation’s DNA. However, statistics only tell the story of what has been, not what may happen tomorrow. HSE is therefore perishable in nature and needs to be continuously nurtured by creating understanding and ensuring compliance,” he emphasizes. “That is why we have a comprehensive quality system with KPIs against which all our managers are measured.

“TCM operates two facilities, the Amine Plant and the Emerging Technologies Site, where customers carry out some of their testing with their own personnel.

How confident can you be that they will not, consciously, or unconsciously, follow established procedures, for example, for handling toxic chemicals?”

“At the heart of a testing campaign at our facilities are extensive contractual frameworks that describe, among other things, the very strict emission permits within which TCM operates and the procedures to which the customer agrees to adhere in order to maintain a safe working environment. They have the same interest as we do in ensuring that testing is carried out within safe parameters, including the use of safety equipment and functional meters. We cannot, of course, shadow everyone who works in the facilities, but through our inspections and controls we will quickly identify and act against those who may be attempting to ‘cut corners’.

“However, people from countries with a different culture to Norway may perceive our systems and safety procedures as rigid. How are such contradictions resolved in practice?

“The prerequisite for good and trusting cooperation is that HSE standards and procedures are put on the table early in the dialogue with companies considering testing at TCM. For example, we operate under what is believed to be the strictest permit in the world for nitrosamine emissions, which means that TCM must have access to and be able to control the chemical content and characteristics of the various technologies. Our data storage systems provide customers with the assurance that this information will not be compromised. The benefit to the customer of using TCM’s expertise is that, as I said earlier, if our strict safety requirements are met throughout a campaign, then they have all the prerequisites to be successful anywhere in the world.

TCM started operations at the amine plant in 2012 and the site for emerging technologies was established in 2020.

“Can you give examples of measures implemented over the years to ensure a safe working environment?”

“Based on measurements and experiences after the test campaigns, both technical and administrative measures have been implemented to improve safety. For example, in connection with the 60-metre-high absorption tower, we have built a separate ‘analysis house’ at ground level to protect personnel from potential fallout as well as from weather, wind and temperature changes. Around this house, we have also extended the emission pipes sufficiently high above the ground. This is to ensure that any potential emissions of tiny and diffuse particles, which are not covered by the emissions permit, are at an appropriate distance from people in the area. We have also moved a container from the workshop area to the factory to prevent potentially contaminated clothing and equipment from being transported by car. We have also enclosed lye and chemical containers for safer storage, shielding and waste collection.

“TCM’s many publications also contain good descriptions of how we work to prevent harm to people, the environment and materials. Sharing experiences is a core aspect of all HSE work”.

A lot to manage

As HSE/QR manager, you lead a department that, in addition to yourself, consists of occupational hygienist Alexander Reyes-Lingjerde and company doctor Brynjar Jakobsen, both in part-time positions. It must be quite a lot to manage when you also must monitor the physical and psychosocial working environment for TCM’s office workers?

“That’s why it’s so important that the strict HSEQ standards we’ve adopted from our industrial owners permeate the entire organisation. The engineering department plans how to organise a campaign, including analysis of the chemicals to be used before the modification department and operations/maintenance/laboratory take practical responsibility for implementation. In the HSE department we focus on supporting the relevant departments as early as possible and throughout the process. From the customer’s point of view, the advantage lies in the seamless transitions from step to step and the short decision-making paths. This ensures the efficient execution of a campaign in a working environment that everyone feels is safe.

TCM contributing to technology development

Since its establishment in 2012, TCM has been a hub for global technology suppliers to come to Mongstad to test, verify and develop cost-effective technologies for CO₂ capture from industrial plants. In addition, TCM’s owners have led scientific campaigns using non-proprietary technologies such as MEA and CESAR1 solvents, setting benchmarks for commercial technology suppliers. As a result, a number of scientific articles.

By testing both proprietary and open technologies, TCM is a world-leading centre of excellence in carbon capture. Our commitment to trust and confidentiality ensures excellent test results for each partner. 

More than 60 scientific articles

TCM’s primary focus is to drive technology development that reduces the cost of capture while minimising environmental and technical risks, thereby facilitating the accelerated deployment of large-scale industrial CO₂ capture facilities.

Visit our website for a comprehensive overview of all published articles covering a wide range of topics. Use the search function and other available features to easily navigate through our categorised articles.

 

We have divided the articles into the following topic areas

1. TCM Design & Construction
2. Operational Experience & Results
3. TCM Verified Baseline Results
4. Emissions – Limits, Measurements and Mitigation
5. Aerosols & Mist
6. Solvent Degradation, Management and Reclaiming
7. Process modelling, Scale-up and Cost reduction
8. Transient / Dispatchable operation & Process control
9. Corrosion & Materials
10. CESAR 1 Solvent 
11. MEA Solvent 

However, he adds, “The prerequisite is that in all new capture projects, one adheres to and makes use of this important knowledge already in the early planning phase.»

When the planned full-scale project at Mongstad came on the drawing board in 2008. Pedersen had the opportunity to delve into a new and exciting field for him.

«One major risk factor of the project was whether emissions of amines and the formation of nitrosamines and nitramines in the atmosphere posed such a significant cancer risk to the population that the technology had to be abandoned. Through collaboration between researchers at UiO, NILU, TCM, and international experts. Effective tools and methods were developed. This has created the necessary confidence in carbon capture and storage (CCS) as a crucial contribution to the fight against climate change,» he emphasizes.

Emissions permit with strict regulations

The emissions permit applicable to TCM’s operations is issued by the Norwegian Environment Agency. And follows the recommended exposure limits for nitrosamines and nitramines in air and drinking water set by the Norwegian Institute of Public Health (FHI). FHI recently updated its report from 2011, and the same limit values have been retained.

«In our efforts to develop sound assessment methods, we relied on the conservative limit values provided by the Norwegian Institute of Public Health (FHI) for guidance. Based on the properties of one of the most carcinogenic substances, nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA), limit values were established for concentrations in air of up to 0.3 nanograms per cubic meter and in water of up to 4 nanograms per liter of drinking water, measured as the sum of nitrosamines and nitramines. The corresponding cancer risk is one case per million people over a lifetime of 75 years.»

Steinar Pedersen emphasizes the importance of the emission expertise held by TCM and the strict regime that applies to testing both mature and new carbon capture technologies in this regard. Research and development of reliable methods for measurement and continuous monitoring during testing thus make emissions a crucial parameter for the industry when selecting suitable technology for a capture plant.

Informative MEA campaigns

Knowledge about emission measurement has also been important for a total of three periods of open test campaigns at TCM using the capture solvent MEA (Mono Ethanol Amine) organized by the company’s owners. Pedersen participated in a working group that planned and carried out the last campaign in 2017. In addition to studying methods for reducing pollution levels in the treated gas leaving the process, the work provided valuable insights into potential process improvements and the possibility of achieving a high CO₂ capture rate from an emission source.

«In addition, the campaign provided us with important learning and understanding both regarding energy consumption and efficiency, and about the performance of the capture solvent over long-term operation. By documenting these experiences in scientific publications and presenting them in professional forums, TCM has contributed to setting a benchmark for amine-based carbon capture that has benefitted the entire international CCS community.»

«You have been following TCM from the planning and construction of the facility until today. Has the operation met the expectations you and other professionals had for what was supposed to happen?»

«I would say that TCM has actually exceeded expectations. The rationale behind this is that over the years, a market for functional capture technologies has been created. This is a result of suppliers being able to take the final and highly demanding step towards commercialization. And sale of technologies to the industry through testing at the facility. Furthermore, it is worth emphasizing that TCM, through the establishment of its 3rd site, also provides space for developers of less mature technologies to test how these function under real physical conditions. Moreover, TCM’s position as a world-leading center for carbon capture is confirmed by the large number of visitors who come to learn and be inspired by highly competent professionals.»

«The International Energy Agency (IEA) estimates that to meet the climate goals by 2050, 1.7 billion tons of CO₂ must be removed directly from the air and water, and 6 billion tons of CO₂ must be removed through conventional carbon capture and storage (CCS). With today’s CCS plants, only 50 million tons are managed globally. What do you think is needed to accelerate development?»

«Through research, development, and testing, technologies have been created that are applicable to capturing large volumes of CO₂. In my opinion, the challenge now primarily lies on the market side. The climate challenge is global, but the willingness to pay the price that can solve the problems is not yet strong enough. Nevertheless, Norway is leading the way with Langskip, and exciting capture and storage projects are being developed in several other countries. Therefore, I am optimistic, both regarding CCS and measures that contribute to reducing the footprint of the energy we use. At Equinor, we are investing broadly across the entire value chain with major projects in energy carriers such as solar, wind, and hydrogen, and we are not alone among the major players in working diligently towards climate-friendly energy solutions. And fortunately, there are still some years left until 2050.»

Steinar Pedersen (64) is a researcher (Specialist Process Downstream) at Equinor’s research unit in Herøya Industrial Park, specializing in CO₂ capture and storage. He graduated as a chemical engineer from NTNU in 1982 and subsequently worked at SINTEF.

Since 1986, he has been employed by Norsk Hydro, and since 2008, he has been with StatoilHydro (now Equinor). From 2014 to 2019, he was partially seconded from Equinor to TCM’s Business Development department. During this period, he also participated in a working group established by TCM’s owners to prepare and carry out an open test campaign (MEA).

Since 2020, he has been a member of TCM’s technical committee (TC).

Important collaboration

Ismail Shah, Managing Director of TCM, cannot overstate the importance of the Americans in the development of CO₂ capture technology. “They have a large apparatus and good funding schemes for accelerating CCS technology development and deployment. We are very pleased that they recognise TCM’s unique expertise and infrastructure. Six different companies have already been and tested. Several of these are now involved in project studies around the world. We hope to see more American technology suppliers in the coming years. Currently have two American companies here, ION Clean Energy and InnoSepra. We will have more information on these two players soon,” Ismail concludes.

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HRH Crown Prince Haakon today visi6 March 2024 visited Technology Centre Mongstad (TCM), the world’s largest and most flexible centre for testing and verifying CO₂ capture technologies. Accompanying him on the visit is Sharon Hudson-Dean, U.S. Chargée D’Affaires a.i. in Norway.

The Crown Prince Regent was welcomed by more than a hundred enthusiastic children from kindergartens and schools in Alver and Austrheim and was then given a detailed introduction to the work being done to develop technologies and projects for carbon capture and storage (CCS). Crown Prince Haakon was then given a tour of the plant and shown how CO₂ capture technologies are tested in practice. The four-hour visit concluded with lunch.

Focus on the green shift

Crown Prince Haakon is interested in business development and innovation, with a particular focus on environmental issues and the green shift. He believes that technical innovation has an environmental aspect and can contribute to solving the world’s challenges.

At Technology Centre Mongstad (TCM) today, he was told about the testing of CO₂ capture technologies and what this means for the development and construction of full-scale carbon capture and storage facilities. TCM’s CEO, Muhammad Ismail Shah, explained that since its opening in 2012, the company has conducted more than 20 test campaigns, mostly for commercial technology providers, but also open, research-based campaigns, which have provided the CCS industry with valuable knowledge about the characteristics of different technologies. The Crown Prince was also briefed on the efforts of TCM’s industrial owners – Equinor, Shell og TotalEnergies – in reducing their carbon footprint and their significant role in TCM.

Longships underway next year

Aker Carbon Capture reported on its involvement in large-scale carbon capture projects. These include the capture plant at Heidelberg Cement’s Brevik plant, which will be operational in 2025 and where the technology has been tested at TCM. The planned capture of 400,000 tons of CO₂ per year will be transported to Northern Lights’ receiving facility in Øygarden. From there, it will be transported through pipes under the seabed in the North Sea. This project, which is part of the Norwegian Longship initiative, was also presented to the Crown Prince. Finally, Equinor’s plans to decarbonise the Mongstad oil refinery were presented.

Prepared for an official visit to the USA

The Crown Prince Regent has also recently visited the Bergen Offshore Wind Research Centre at the University of Bergen and attended a seminar for offshore wind industry players. Next month, he will embark on an official visit to the West Coast of the USA to promote business cooperation in green transition and digitalization initiatives.

Since October of last year, Erik Meuleman, Chief Technology Officer of ION Clean Energy. Together with ION’s Research & Development team have conducted a test campaign at TCM on their ICE-31 solvent system. The Dutchman Meuleman joined ION in 2016. The same year as ION was the first US-based CO₂ capture company that tested at TCM. “We were a ‘Guinea pig” and laid the ground work for many other US Department of Energy-backed technologies to be further tested at TCM, he says with a smile.”

ION Clean Energy

ION is a dedicated CO₂ capture technology company headquartered in Boulder, Colorado, at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. “We have a team of top-notch chemists, numerous engineers with specializations in processes, materials, mechanics, control and automation. As a result, we have strong corporate and administrative support. Currently, we employ 25 professionals and we are experiencing strong, organic growth focused on the continued development of our high-performing teams.”

Chief Technology Officer at ION Clean Energy, Erik Meuleman, has been leading the company’s test campaign at TCM’s amine plant in recent months. “We are extremely satisfied with the results we have achieved,” he says in this interview.

ION’s website boldly promotes your solvent as “The world’s best capture solvent”. You’re not modest.

“How do you substantiate such a claim?” 

“I will outline the key advantages of ICE-31 (.pdf) using three bullet points:

• Unparalleled Solvent Stability: ICE-31 demonstrates exceptional resistance to oxidative degradation, resulting in an extended solvent lifespan.
• Favorable Emissions Profile: We have conducted validation tests at TCM to confirm its remarkably low and environmentally friendly emissions profile.
• Energy Efficiency: ICE-31 maintains high capture efficiency while consuming minimal energy.

The feedback from potential investors and competitors leads us to believe that we have developed something truly exceptional. One of the world’s premier capture solvent systems. If not the best. We eagerly anticipate the moment where independent authoritative third parties corroborate these claims on our new TCM results.” 

“What specific advantages does ICE-31 technology offer compared to competing technologies?”

“The game-changing property of ICE-31 is its exceptional chemical stability in oxidative environments. Feedback indicates that our emissions are very low. If not ultra-low, for a high-performing amine-based system. This enables deep decarbonization of processes with relatively low energy consumption and excellent compatibility with materials.”

Eight years ago, ION tested its ICE-21 solvent at TCM. Now, you have been back with the ICE-31 solvent. Aiming to advance it from TRL 6 to TRL 7.

“Has ICE-21 been shelved, or is ICE-31 an improved version of ICE-21?”

“Indeed, ICE-21 has been successfully developed. And ION designs its capture plants to be adaptable to either solvent. The choice between them is made on a case-by-case basis.” 

“Why did you choose to return to TCM for testing. And what strengths do you see in TCM compared to other testing centers? 

“We chose to return to TCM for several compelling reasons. Among these, several stand out:

• TCM’s Proven Track Record: TCM boasts a remarkable history of successfully conducting 20X scale-ups, including handling highly confidential data with the utmost trustworthiness.
• High-Quality Data: TCM excels in providing high-quality data due to its in-depth understanding of the entire process, including operations, major equipment, online measuring devices, and laboratory facilities. This comprehensive knowledge is instrumental in generating reliable results.
• Credibility with Clients: TCM’s results hold substantial weight in our interactions with both existing and potential clients. This credibility has even attracted the interest of renowned institutions such as LLNL and LBNL, who are keen to explore deep decarbonization and ultra-low emissions using innovative amine-based solvents.
• Visitor-Friendly Environment: TCM is excellent in welcoming visitors, be they clients, strategic collaborators, or investors. The accommodating and professional atmosphere enhances our interactions and contributes positively to our projects.
• Meeting OCED Requirements: OCED mandates test results at power levels exceeding 10 MW. Collaborating with TCM allows us to work with the largest and most reputable facilities, aligning with industry standards and expectations.
• On a personal note, the lunches served at TCM’s canteen are simply top-notch, making our overall experience even more enjoyable.

“How would you describe the progress of testing at TCM since you started in October?”

“Since our project began with the integration of our solvent into the existing TCM plant in October.  There has been significant progress. Both ION and TCM teams have embarked on a steep learning curve, gaining valuable insights into each other’s roles and contributions within this collaboration. Specifically, ION has been delving into the intricate details of the TCM Amine Plant’s flexible operations, while TCM has been deepening its understanding of the unique properties of the ICE-31 solvent.

The hallmark of our collaboration has been outstanding teamwork. We have efficiently addressed and resolved challenges that have arisen along the way, showcasing our collective problem-solving capabilities. As we proceed, we are systematically progressing through the project’s work packages, each of which brings us closer to achieving our objectives.

One of the most significant milestones we have been working towards is demonstrating the capture of CO₂ beyond its concentration in the ambient air, a territory that has been uncharted for us. The results we have achieved seem very promising.”

“If, as a result of the testing at TCM, you succeed in advancing ICE-31 from TRL 6 to 7, what would be the next step in introducing the technology to the market?”

“ION is already actively engaged in several projects, and we have garnered the confidence of key industry players who are eager to incorporate our designs and technology. This interest is demonstrated by the visits of prominent companies to TCM during our testing campaign. For instance, we’ve hosted Koch Engineered Solutions, Siemens Energy, and Calpine. All of these companies are in the process of expanding their CCS (Carbon Capture and Storage) efforts.

Furthermore, I would consider advocating for advancing to TRL 8 for applications up to 200 ktpa (thousands of metric tons per annum). This expanded scope will enable us to address a broader range of applications and markets. Regardless of the TRL level, it’s crucial to emphasize that testing at a scale larger than 10 MW, as exemplified by TCM, is a prerequisite for securing commercial scale support from the DOE’s Carbon Capture Demonstration Projects Program, which has $2.5 billion in funding to help accelerate the demonstration and deployment of carbon management technologies.”

“How do you perceive the interest in the industry in the USA and potentially in other parts of the world for the solutions ION can offer for full-scale CO₂ capture?”

“ION receives numerous inquiries each week, indicating a substantial level of interest in our technology. Notably, there are ongoing public projects that are progressing at full capacity, including those with Calpine (Sutter Decarbonization Project and Delta Energy Center) and Tampa Electric (Polk Power Station).

These capture plants have been meticulously designed to capture carbon dioxide emissions, with each capable of capturing over 1 million metric tons per annum (mtpa). The largest of these projects boasts an impressive capacity of 3.7 mtpa, underscoring the significant scale and impact of our initiatives.”

TCM has served as a testing ground for a wide range of technologies, both mature and emerging, since its inception in 2012, and its owners have decided to continue this mission.

“From your perspective, what significance does the ongoing operation of TCM hold for the CCS industry in the years ahead?”

“The continued operation of TCM is of immense significance for the CCS (Carbon Capture and Storage) industry moving forward. Facilities like TCM play a pivotal role in expediting the development of new technologies, such as ours. As far as I am aware, TCM is unrivaled in its capabilities, and I can confidently say that without TCM, ION would not have had the opportunity to evolve into the mature technology that we are today.

By providing a robust platform for testing and validation, TCM not only accelerates the development of CCS technologies but also ensures their reliability and effectiveness in real-world applications. This, in turn, paves the way for the widespread adoption of CCS solutions, ultimately contributing to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and the advancement of sustainable practices within the industry.”

“Thank you for taking the time for the conversation, and good luck with your further endeavors!”