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EG504L: CARBON CAPTURE, UTILISATION AND STORAGE (CCUS) (2022-2023)

Last modified: 31 Jul 2023 11:19


Course Overview

This course presents an overview of the motivations, challenges and technological solutions associated with Carbon Capture, Utilisation and Storage (CCUS). The main carbon capture technologies and methods, CO2 transportation and underground storage are covered. These are introduced in terms of their technical, economic, and environmental criteria, as well as stage of development. Examples of operating pilot plants are shown, complemented by industrial guest lectures and webinars. 

Course Details

Study Type Postgraduate Level 5
Term First Term Credit Points 15 credits (7.5 ECTS credits)
Campus Aberdeen Sustained Study No
Co-ordinators
  • Dr Prashant Jadhawar

What courses & programmes must have been taken before this course?

  • Any Postgraduate Programme
  • Engineering (EG)

What other courses must be taken with this course?

None.

What courses cannot be taken with this course?

Are there a limited number of places available?

No

Course Description

This course covers energy transition topics focussing on the engineering and technological aspects of carbon capture. These are reviewed in the context of ongoing CCUS projects in Scotland such as ACORN and the Peterhead projects. The course begins with an overview of the current global carbon emissions and their sources and resultant climate change. UK and international reduction targets are presented along with the framework of the respective regulatory aspects.

After this introduction, the course then focusses on delivering the fundamental concepts, various application technologies and methods associated with carbon capture and energy transition.  

The course includes the basics of process engineering, mass and energy balances, leading to the theory, practical application, and evaluation of the various carbon capturing techniques from a range of industrial sources. The key drivers for capturing CO2 in the context of energy transition are described.

The safe transportation of CO2, from onshore capture to offshore injection into depleted reservoirs for the reutilization and geologic/oceanic storage is investigated, with special consideration given to North Sea environments. The course considers CO2 phase behaviour and the flow assurance issues associated with CO2 transportation, including hydrates and corrosion, and their remedial measures. The main technological considerations for CO2 utilization via mineral carbonation and enhanced oil recovery are evaluated and the mechanisms underlying underground sequestration are discussed.

Case studies focussing on CCS/CCUS projects in Scotland (ACORN and Peterhead), will fortify the theoretical aspects in the course and the industrial deployment of such projects will be considered. Students will carry out a coursework that includes design aspects of CO2 transportation and storage systems to enhance their applied and transferable skills.


Details, including assessments, may be subject to change until 30 August 2024 for 1st term courses and 20 December 2024 for 2nd term courses.

Summative Assessments

First Attempt

1x Coursework (40%)
1x Online Open-Book Exam (60%)

Alternative Resit Arrangements

Resit of only the failed assessment component(s)

Formative Assessment

There are no assessments for this course.

Course Learning Outcomes

Knowledge LevelThinking SkillOutcome
ConceptualUnderstandUnderstand the different technological options and challenges associated with carbon capture, transportation, utilization, and storage.
ConceptualAnalyseAnalyse and compare the physical principles behind different CCUS options and their respective fit in the implementation of CCUS systems.
ConceptualApplyDiscuss and explain the need for CCUS and the various carbon capture technologies and processes.
ProceduralEvaluateEvaluate carbon capture systems accounting for flow assurance related issues when transporting CO2
ProceduralEvaluateEvaluate CO2 utilization and underground storage of CO2 in various geologic and oceanic systems.

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