- The pilot test in Holla, Norway, achieved CO2 capture rates of over 95%.
- The project aims to capture 180,000 metric tons of CO2 annually.
- WACKER targets a 50% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 and net zero by 2045.
- The process uses amine scrubbing to extract CO2 from waste gas.
CO2 Capture Pilot Test
WACKER has successfully conducted a pilot test to capture carbon dioxide (CO2) from silicon production at its Holla, Norway site. The project, supported by SLB and Aker Carbon Capture Joint Venture (SLB-ACC JV), utilized a mobile test unit (MTU) to capture CO2 via amine scrubbing. This method uses an amine-containing solvent to selectively extract CO2 from the gas mixture.
Key Achievements
The pilot test achieved CO2 capture rates of over 95%. The project team also validated process parameters, providing essential data for large-scale implementation. An engineering feasibility study was conducted, designing a plant capable of capturing 180,000 metric tons of CO2 annually.
Sustainability Goals
WACKER aims to reduce its absolute greenhouse gas emissions by 50% by 2030, compared to 2020 levels, and achieve net zero emissions by 2045. The Holla site, which began using 100% green electricity in 2022, is a significant part of this plan. The site aims for full CO2-neutral production by 2030, transitioning from bituminous coal to biogenic carbon sources.
Future Applications
Captured CO2 can be repurposed for synthetic fuels or methanol production, or stored underground. The use of CO2-neutral metallurgical-grade silicon from Holla could significantly reduce the carbon footprint of WACKER’s silicone products, contributing to climate-neutral silicon value chains.
