World’s First Ship-to-Ship LCO2 Transfer Successfully Completed in Shanghai
Shanghai Qiyao Environmental Technology (SMDERI-QET) has announced the completion of what is claimed to be the world’s first ship-to-ship transfer of liquefied carbon dioxide (LCO2). SMDERI-QET is a subsidiary of the Shanghai Marine Diesel Engine Research Institute and is part of the China State Shipbuilding Company.
The operation took place on June 19 at Yangshan Deep-Water Port in Shanghai, with support from Shanghai Port Group Energy and Shanghai Port Group Logistics. This transfer showcases a comprehensive solution that includes onboard carbon capture, liquefaction, storage, and offloading to facilities that utilize carbon.
Source: SMDERI-QET
The Onboard Carbon Capture and Storage System (OCCS) developed by SMDERI-QET has achieved over 80 % carbon dioxide capture efficiency with a purity level of 99,9 %. Since the delivery of the first full-process OCCS in early 2024, SMDERI-QET has successfully completed several LCO2 offloading projects, helping ship owners enhance their Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) ratings.
However, the adoption of OCCS technology has faced challenges due to the lack of port infrastructure capable of handling large-scale carbon storage and recovery. Su Yi, General Manager of SMDERI-QET, noted that many ports do not have the necessary systems for efficient ship-to-shore offloading. He added that installing the required facilities imposes high demands on port and terminal infrastructure, which may be constrained by draft limitations and other factors.
The ship-to-ship LCO2 transfer project at Yangshan Deep-Water Port not only demonstrates the feasibility of OCCS but also eliminates the need for terminal facilities for the transfer, storage, and recovery of liquefied carbon dioxide, according to Su.
He emphasized that transferring LCO2 from ship to ship significantly improves operational flexibility, allowing for efficient loading and unloading at terminals that may lack the necessary infrastructure. The offloaded LCO2 can be directly transported to a facility for storage and utilization, effectively addressing a significant barrier to the widespread adoption of carbon capture technology.
Su highlighted that this trial represents a step towards establishing comprehensive carbon management solutions within the maritime sector and related industries. Looking ahead, SMDERI-QET plans to collaborate with both domestic and international partners to help develop regulations and standards for marine carbon capture and transportation.
“We are confident that the successful completion of the world’s first ship-to-ship LCO₂ transfer, along with the continued advancement of onboard carbon capture technologies, will not only facilitate the rapid development of a global network of shore-based carbon storage and utilization facilities but also accelerate the decarbonization of shipping,” Su added.
