In a groundbreaking study published in the Polish Maritime Research, Li Zijian from the College of Electromechanical Engineering at Qingdao University of Science and Technology has shed light on a novel approach to harnessing cold energy from LNG-fuelled vessels to liquefy captured CO2. This research, which could significantly impact the maritime industry’s quest for greener operations, proposes two innovative schemes to tackle the energy-intensive process of CO2 liquefaction.
Li Zijian’s study addresses a critical issue in maritime emissions reduction: the abundant cold energy in LNG fuel and the high energy consumption required for CO2 liquefaction. The two proposed systems, an LNG cold energy and refrigeration cycle integrated CO2 liquefaction system (Scheme 1) and an LNG cold energy and seawater diversion liquefied CO2 system (Scheme 2), were simulated using Aspen HYSYS software. The simulations provided valuable data on various thermodynamic parameters, including exergy efficiency, cold energy utilisation rate, and energy consumption under different vessel operating conditions.
“The results prove that the system should have good practical applications,” Li Zijian stated, highlighting the feasibility of the proposed schemes. The study also conducted an economic analysis of typical vessel routes, demonstrating the potential for significant energy consumption reduction and carbon emission decreases by utilising LNG cold energy for CO2 liquefaction and capture.
For maritime professionals, this research opens up new avenues for improving the environmental performance of LNG-fuelled vessels. By leveraging the cold energy inherent in LNG, ships can more efficiently capture and liquefy CO2, reducing both energy consumption and carbon emissions. This not only aligns with the industry’s push towards decarbonisation but also presents commercial opportunities for shipowners and operators looking to enhance their sustainability credentials.
Li Zijian’s work, published in the Polish Maritime Research, known in English as ‘Polish Maritime Research’, underscores the potential of innovative technologies to address the maritime industry’s environmental challenges. As the sector continues to explore ways to reduce its carbon footprint, studies like this one provide valuable insights and practical solutions that can drive progress towards a more sustainable future.
The study’s findings are particularly relevant for maritime professionals involved in vessel design, operations, and environmental management. By adopting these proposed systems, the industry can make significant strides in reducing its environmental impact while also achieving operational efficiencies. This research not only highlights the importance of leveraging existing resources like LNG cold energy but also demonstrates the potential for economic and environmental benefits through technological innovation.