Liquid Carbon Dioxide-lco2

The storage of CO2 in low-pressure liquid form offers an alternative approach, achieved either through the expansion of high-pressure CO2 to a lower pressure or via refrigeration methods. This liquid CO2 is contained within specially designed storage tanks, which are heavily insulated and equipped with refrigeration units to maintain the internal tank pressure at or below 21 bar (304.58 psi) and a temperature of -18 °C (-0.4 °F). Pressure switches are integrated to regulate the refrigeration units, while safety mechanisms and electrical alarms are installed to manage tank pressure and raise alerts in the event of refrigeration malfunctions.

Transportation of low-pressure liquid CO2, often termed as “bulk,” occurs via insulated road tankers or trailers (or, in some regions, by rail tank wagons). The transfer of the liquid from mobile to static tanks is typically facilitated through pumping or gravity feed mechanisms.

Unlike water, carbon dioxide cannot remain in a liquid state when exposed to the open air; it necessitates either pressurization, refrigeration, or a combination of both to maintain its liquid form.