Full-scale demonstration of carbon capture and storage in Glass manufacturing to limit furnace CO2 emissions

Introduction

GLASS2LIFE aims to demonstrate in a container glass manufacturing plant an innovative and energy-efficient process for CO2 capture, based on the use of hot potassium carbonate (HPC) and replicable to many other hard-to-abate industries.

Objectives

It enables cost-effective sequestration of 80% of CO2 from furnace flue gases. The project is closer to market than alternatives such as fuel switching or full electrification and also addresses process emissions. This represents a strategic solution for quick decarbonisation of the glass industry to achieve EU climate neutrality by 2050.

Implementation

The system will be designed, built, and tested at full industrial scale in a newly built oxy-fuel furnace, where it will be operated for one year by O-I Italy. Performance will be accurately monitored and assessed by SSV, a renowned Italian research body for the glass sector.

Feasibility and Optimization

This will allow for the proof of technical and economic feasibility of this first complete CCS solution for the glass industry. Additionally, it will optimize the value chain of transport and storage, in collaboration with stakeholder ENI, which will operate a storage site in Ravenna from 2024.

Technology Advancement

Technology provider K2-CO2 will use outcomes to bring the system’s Technology Readiness Level (TRL) to 8 and to prepare for a quick market introduction. They will also assess opportunities in other hard-to-abate industries and verify possible integration with future reuse solutions (CCU).

Replication and Sustainability

O-I will use the results to assess the potential for replication in its other plants, deliver a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) on produced bottles, and liaise with its customers to define value propositions on low-carbon bottles from a sustainable value chain perspective.

Awareness and Dissemination

All partners will boost awareness of the new technology in target sectors and society, and disseminate results among stakeholders to sustain future industrial uptake.