BAKU, Azerbaijan, October 19. Japanese
companies INPEX Corporation and Sumitomo Osaka Cement have launched
demonstration testing of a technology designed to capture carbon
dioxide (CO₂) using reusable calcium compounds, the companies
said.
INPEX said on October 19 that the technology, known as calcium
looping (Ca-Looping), converts captured CO₂ into calcium carbonate,
which can be transported under normal temperature and pressure
conditions.
“A demonstration facility has been installed at the National
Maritime Research Institute in Mitaka City, Tokyo, where testing is
currently underway,” said the company.
In the process, CO₂ from large vessels and other sources is
captured using an alkaline solution and converted into calcium
carbonate through a reaction with calcium hydroxide. The material
is then transported to a CO₂ storage site, where it is processed to
release CO₂ for permanent underground storage. The resulting
calcium oxide is subsequently regenerated into calcium hydroxide
for reuse.
The companies are initially developing the technology for
installation on large vessels, as international regulations on
shipping emissions become increasingly stringent. They also aim to
expand its application across other sectors and contribute to the
effective use of CO₂ storage sites operated or owned by INPEX in
Japan and overseas.
INPEX said the initiative aligns with its Vision 2035, which
identifies research and development as a key driver of competitive
advantage and future growth.
Sumitomo Osaka Cement, meanwhile, aims to advance carbon-related
businesses in line with its SOCN2050 carbon neutrality vision,
which includes the production and use of artificial limestone and
the exploration of carbon capture and storage (CCS) in cooperation
with partners.
By combining INPEX’s expertise in CO₂ separation, capture, and
geological storage with Sumitomo Osaka Cement’s carbon
mineralization technologies, the companies aim to accelerate the
development of solutions supporting decarbonization.
