As industries work towards their decarbonisation targets, carbon capture is emerging as a strategic solution for reducing carbon dioxide emissions from activities that are difficult to electrify. Carbon capture, utilization and storage, also known by the acronym CCUS, involves capturing CO₂ at its source, preparing it for transportation, and then either using it or storing it permanently.
Within this new logistics chain, cryogenic containers play an essential role. They connect industrial emission sites with utilization facilities, port terminals and storage sites, while providing an intermodal solution suited to liquefied CO₂ flows.
The Carbon Capture and CO₂ Liquefaction Process
The process generally begins directly at industrial sites, particularly in the cement, steel, chemical, energy production and hydrogen sectors.
The CO₂ contained in industrial gases is first separated from the other components. Several technologies can be used, including chemical absorption, membrane separation and cryogenic processes. Cryogenic carbon capture relies on cooling and separating the different phases at low temperatures. It can produce high-purity liquid CO₂, which can then be stored, transported or utilised.
After capture, the CO₂ must be purified and conditioned. Impurities and moisture are removed to obtain a product that meets the requirements for storage, transportation and its intended end use. The carbon dioxide is then compressed or liquefied to reduce its volume and facilitate handling.
This stage transforms an industrial emission into a manageable logistics flow.
Captured CO₂ Utilization and Permanent Storage Solutions
Once captured, CO₂ can follow two main pathways: utilization or permanent storage.
As part of Carbon Capture and Utilization, CO₂ becomes a raw material for a variety of industrial applications. It can be used in the production of alternative fuels, methanol, chemicals, plastics and construction materials. It is also used in certain food and beverage applications, water treatment, greenhouse crop enrichment and various industrial processes.
When utilization is not possible, CO₂ can be directed to permanent geological storage. It is then injected into suitable formations, such as deep saline aquifers or depleted hydrocarbon reservoirs. This solution is designed to prevent its release into the atmosphere over the long term.
The Benefits of Cryogenic Containers for CO₂ Transport
Large volumes of CO₂ can be transported by pipeline or specialised vessel. However, many carbon capture projects begin with limited volumes, dispersed sites or infrastructure that is still under development.
In this context, cryogenic tank containers provide a flexible solution. Designed for the storage and transportation of liquefied gases, they can be used for liquid CO₂ and integrated into road, rail and maritime logistics chains.
Our cryogenic containers can therefore help to:
- Transport liquefied CO₂ from the capture site;
- Provide temporary storage within the logistics chain;
- Connect multiple industrial sites to shared infrastructure;
- Supply CO₂ utilization facilities;
- Transport the product to a terminal or storage site;
- Support the gradual development of new CCUS projects.
Eurotainer’s cryogenic tanks are designed according to UN T75 requirements and carry international approvals for transport across different markets.
A Flexible Solution for Developing the CCUS Value Chain
One of the main challenges facing carbon capture is connecting CO₂ emitters with sites capable of using or storing it. Not all industrial sites have direct access to a pipeline or specialised terminal.
Thanks to their intermodal capabilities, cryogenic containers can help bridge this logistics gap. They provide a scalable solution for testing new flows, launching operations with controlled volumes or serving facilities located far from major networks.
By combining technical expertise, operational safety and logistics flexibility, our cryogenic container solutions support the development of a more connected carbon value chain. From the capture site through to utilization or final storage, they help transform captured CO₂ into a controlled industrial flow.
To learn more about Eurotainer’s cryogenic tank containers and their applications for liquid CO₂, explore our cryogenic solutions or contact our team to discuss your project requirements.