Chapter 2 - Carbon capture technologies

Abstract

Carbon capture can be deployed on industrial and thermal power plants to reduce their environmental impact. By integrating this with biomass, a lower carbon intensity fuel, it is possible to achieve net-negative emissions. Bioenergy with carbon capture and storage (BECCS) can be accomplished in a variety of ways, making use of postcombustion, oxy-fuel, and precombustion options. In this technical chapter, these will be discussed, encompassing a broad review of the ongoing, state-of-the-art research. At present, solvent-based postcombustion capture is the most advanced and thus will be the main focus. Key challenges will be highlighted—namely, deposition, particle carryover, and particle enrichment—along with the research avenues that require further investigation to ensure BECCS is deployable, at scale and in an efficient and cost-effective manner. To conclude, evidence-based recommendations are made to inform policy-makers on the regulatory frameworks necessary for the successful integration of BECCS into the future energy system.