Work

Impact of variability in inlet operating conditions on CO2 transport in pipelines

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: The success of CCS technologies relies on the effectiveness and safety of the infrastructure for the transport of carbon dioxide in pressurized pipelines. Unlike natural gas networks, long-distance carbon dioxide transport presents critical design challenges, such as the need for repressurization to prevent two-phase flow conditions and potential freezing. To address this, we propose a comprehensive assessment framework that combines high-fidelity numerical simulations with a stochastic approach based on the Polynomial Chaos Expansion (PCE). Specifically, we employ the Homogeneous Equilibrium Model (HEM) to compute key quantities of interest (QoIs)—related to pressure drop and the maximum distance before repressurization is required—under a design scenario inspired by the Cortez pipeline (Colorado, USA). Based on PCE surrogates, we then perform global sensitivity analyses and uncertainty quantification to evaluate how variability in inlet parameters influences these QoIs, mapping results across a range of realistic operating conditions. Our results provide critical insight into the risks connected with CO 2 transport and support the optimal design of operating conditions. Moreover, the proposed methodology is general and easily applicable to other CO 2 transport facilities.

Source: International Journal of Multiphase Flow

DOI: 10.1016/j.ijmultiphaseflow.2025.105556

Authors: Davide Picchi, Valentina Ciriello

Institutions: University of Brescia, University of Bologna

Language: English

Topic: CO2 Sequestration and Geologic Interactions

Subfield: Environmental Engineering

Field: Environmental Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Industry, innovation and infrastructure, Climate action

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,900