OLI Systems Secures DOE Grant to Innovate CO₂ Transport Safety
OLI Systems, a leading enterprise in water chemistry and process simulation, has made headlines with its recent achievement: being awarded a Phase I Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) grant by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). This pivotal funding will spearhead the creation of the CO₂ Transport Asset Integrity Model, a strategic solution tasked with tackling the pressing issue of pipeline safety in carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) projects—an initiative crucial to combatting climate change.
The Importance of Reliable Transport Systems
As the world pushes towards decarbonization, the significance of robust transport systems cannot be overstated. The infrastructure for CO₂ pipelines in the United States is anticipated to expand substantially—projected to increase fivefold by the year 2050. However, the presence of impurities such as sulfur oxides (SOx) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) in CO₂ streams presents a serious threat to pipeline integrity, underscoring the need for advanced asset integrity solutions.
For over five decades, OLI Systems has established its reputation for excellence in electrolyte chemistry. Its unmatched ability to accurately simulate chemical interactions in even the most demanding conditions positions the company as a premier provider of solutions designed to ensure the safe and efficient transport of CO₂.
Bridging Science and Application
Dr. Andre Anderko, Chief Technology Officer at OLI Systems, emphasized the company’s dual commitment to rigorous scientific inquiry and real-world applications. He stated, "This project underscores our commitment to advancing CCUS infrastructure with groundbreaking tools that enable safer, more efficient systems and support decarbonization goals." This affirmation signals a forward-thinking approach combining innovative science with practical needs in energy infrastructure.
The CO₂ Transport Asset Integrity Model will incorporate sophisticated corrosion prediction modules to assess how impurities affect pipeline materials. Additionally, it will deploy Bayesian network analytics for thorough risk assessments while enabling operators with cloud-integrated dashboards for real-time monitoring and actionable intelligence.
Collaborative Efforts and Proven Expertise
This initiative further builds on OLI's decade-long partnership with the Institute for Energy Technology (IFE) in Norway. The company’s thermodynamic models, which have been rigorously validated through extensive research, serve as a foundation for OLI's existing CO₂ Cloud App—a widely accepted tool utilized by major energy players around the globe.
According to Vineeth Ram, OLI’s Chief Sustainability Officer, "CO₂ transport forms the backbone of the CCUS value chain. This initiative positions OLI as a trailblazer in delivering the tools necessary to build a resilient and efficient carbon infrastructure, accelerating the transition to a sustainable future." Ram’s insight conveys OLI's vision of being at the forefront of necessary changes within carbon management strategies.
Addressing Industry Challenges
In addressing the critical challenges associated with the safe transport of CO₂, OLI Systems is poised to play a pivotal role in helping various industries achieve their decarbonization targets, thereby contributing to a carbon-neutral future. The company's initiatives are set not only to enhance pipeline safety but also to foster broader environmental sustainability efforts.
Conclusion
As the global community increasingly focuses on combating climate change, initiatives like OLI Systems’ new model exemplify the proactive steps necessary for a sustainable energy future. By marrying advanced science with practical applications, OLI Systems is carving a path towards reducing carbon emissions and establishing long-term solutions to ensure the integrity and safety of CO₂ transport infrastructure.
For more information about OLI Systems and their pioneering work in water chemistry and industrial process applications, visit
olisystems.com.