Advancing Liquefied CO₂Shipping: Technical Considerations for Ship Cargo System Design

Advancing Liquefied CO₂Shipping: Technical Considerations for Ship Cargo System Design

The maritime transport of liquefied carbon dioxide (LCO2) is emerging as a critical enabler for large-scale carbon capture and storage (CCS) deployment, addressing the logistical challenge of connecting dispersed emission sources with remote storage sites. This paper provides an analysis of LCO2 ship cargo system design, focusing on the thermodynamic properties of CO2 and their implications for shipboard cargo containment, safety, and operational efficiency. This paper reviews the current fleet of LCO2 carriers and highlights the technological advancements required to meet the demands of future CCS projects, including larger vessel capacities and optimized pressure-temperature regimes. Key design considerations, such as avoiding solid CO2 formation near the triple point and managing impurities, are discussed alongside regulatory frameworks. Furthermore, this paper explores the feasibility of multifunctional cargo systems for transporting other liquefied gases, such as ethane, ammonia, and liquefied petroleum gas, and the potential for direct ocean injection, while acknowledging the associated environmental and regulatory challenges. The findings underscore the need for innovative engineering solutions to ensure the safe, efficient, and scalable implementation of LCO2 shipping within the global carbon management infrastructure.