CO₂ liquefaction

The liquefaction of CO₂ is the process of converting gaseous carbon dioxide into its liquid form, a process that transforms it from an emission into a versatile and transportable resource. 

This step allows the storage, transport and efficient use of CO₂ in various applications.

In addition, the purification and liquefaction of CO₂ plays a crucial role in carbon capture and storage initiatives, avoiding release into the atmosphere in order to mitigate climate change. One more step towards decarbonization. 

The CO₂ liquefaction system designed by AB - DISCO₂VERY - makes it possible to purify and liquefy the mixture composed mainly of carbon dioxide from the BIOCH4NGE® RNG (Renewable Natural Gas) production system, in order to obtain liquid CO₂ suitable for food and industrial use.  

The CO₂ produced by the plant complies with European legislation in force on the subject (Regulation (EU) No. 231/2012 – Additive E290) and the ISBT (International Society of Beverage Technologists) international standard for the use of carbon dioxide in beverages.

The plant is based on an integrated cryogenic process divided into 5 phases: 

1. Treatment: In the first part of the process, the purification system eliminates contaminants and odours through an activated carbon filter system.

2. Compression: the gas is compressed to a pressure between 15 and 20 bar, depending on the customer's needs.

3. Drying: moisture is reduced by condensation and absorption on molecular sieves.

4. Cryogenic distillation: the foreign gases (CH₄, N₂, O₂) present in the incoming mixture are separated from carbon dioxide by means of cryogenic distillation technology, which makes it possible to obtain CO₂ with a content greater than 99.9% from the system, as required by the ISBT. 

5. Storage: The bio-CO₂ is conveyed to a storage tank where it will be maintained at the desired pressure and temperature conditions.