Learning from Mistakes: What CCUS Projects Should Know About Chemistry and Materials for Successful Outcomes

Carbon Capture, Utilisation, and Storage (CCUS) is a critical technology in the global effort to achieve net-zero emissions. By capturing carbon dioxide (CO2) from industrial sources and storing it underground, CCUS helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate climate change. A typical system can be seen in Figure 1. The presence of these impurities in captured CO2 streams poses significant challenges to the integrity and efficiency of CCUS infrastructure. Impurities such as sulphur oxides (SOₓ), nitrogen oxides (NOₓ), hydrogen sulphide (H2S), and oxygen (O2) can undergo complex chemical reactions within CO2 streams. These reactions can lead to the formation of corrosive species, which threaten the integrity of pipelines, storage facilities, and other components of the CCUS system. Understanding these reactions and their implications is essential for developing effective strategies to mitigate corrosion and ensure the long-term viability of CCUS projects.