Introduction
The shipping industry faces the challenge of achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. Onboard carbon capture (OCC) is a potential solution, but many technologies have high energy requirements. UK startup Seabound believes its passive containerized OCC system using calcium oxide is the answer.
How Seabound’s Technology Works?
Seabound’s system uses calcium oxide to capture CO2 from exhaust gas, storing it as calcium carbonate. The process is more energy-efficient than amine-based systems, requiring no compression or liquefaction. The captured CO2 is released at ports with necessary facilities and sold for methanol production or sequestration.
Pilot Project and Scalability
In April 2023, Seabound demonstrated its containerized technology on board Lomar Shipping’s 3,200TEU boxship Sounion Trader. The pilot project indicated that the system could reduce CO2 emissions by nearly 80%. Seabound’s solution is completely scalable, with multiple units capable of being installed on a vessel, taking up only 1-2% of the overall cargo capacity. Retrofitting a vessel would primarily involve installing pipework for exhaust gas processing.
Additional Benefits: Sulphur Capture
In addition to its carbon-capturing potential, Seabound’s system also captures sulfur with 90% efficiency, potentially eliminating the need for scrubbers. The company aims to further develop the technology to raise sulfur capture close to the theoretical maximum of 95%.
Commercialization and Growth Plans
Seabound plans to commercialize its technology and targets installation on 1,000 ships by the end of this decade. The company will offer a full logistics service coupled with the OCC equipment, initially focusing on high-traffic ports that serve as bunkering hubs or on significant trade routes.
Conclusion
Seabound’s passive containerized OCC system using calcium oxide shows promise as an energy-efficient solution for reducing CO2 and sulfur emissions in the shipping industry. With its scalability, retrofit potential, and additional sulfur capture benefits, Seabound is poised for growth as it aims to help the shipping industry achieve its decarbonization goals.
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