ClassNK and Japan’s National Maritime Research Institute (NMRI) have launched a joint research project to evaluate corrosion rates in low-temperature, low-pressure liquefied carbon dioxide (LCO₂) cargo tanks.
The project aims to improve the safety and economic efficiency of future carbon capture, utilization and storage (CCUS) shipping.
As CCUS projects expand worldwide, demand for transporting liquefied CO₂ by sea is expected to grow rapidly. Europe has already begun cross-border CO₂ shipments, while the Asia-Pacific region is preparing for increased transport demand.
However, even small amounts of impurities, such as water and sulfur oxides (SOx), can cause corrosion inside cargo tanks.
To address this challenge, NMRI will install a dedicated CO₂ corrosion test facility. Researchers will conduct corrosion tests under controlled low-temperature and low-pressure conditions while varying impurity types and concentrations.
The experimental data will help establish the technical basis for designing, inspecting and maintaining LCO₂ cargo tanks.
ClassNK said the findings could also support more efficient impurity management. Instead of removing every trace of impurities at high cost, operators may be able to maintain safe corrosion levels through optimized cargo tank design and maintenance strategies.
The research is expected to contribute to lower costs across the entire CCUS value chain while maintaining high safety standards.
ClassNK also plans to use the results to support future updates to its classification rules and technical guidelines for LCO₂ carriers.
The project brings together expertise from ClassNK, NMRI and the University of Tokyo’s Materials for Future Energy Infrastructure Trust (MEIT) programme.
The partners said the research will help establish future design standards and support international rulemaking for the safe transport of liquefied carbon dioxide.
