Carbon Capture Modelling

Question

I am trying to model a DAC (carbon capture) unit in open LCA. The output of this process is captured co2. Following this I have another 'refinery' process which uses this captured co2.

I am unable to model this 'captured co2'. If I put co2 emissions to air as an output (with negative values), then I am unable to use this as a provider in the next process. Also if i create a custom flow, then ofcourse openLCA does not realise that I am as a matter of fact, capturing co2.  

Edit: Screenshot attached

Anyone has experience in modelling carbon capture with openLCA ?

Comments

Hi! I’m trying to model a DAC method as well but end up with positive emissions. Was wondering if you got around resolving this issue and would be willing to share how? Thanks so much!

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see my answer below?

Answer 1

Good question, there is at present  black & white distinction between elementary flows and product/waste flows. If a flow is an elementary flow, it cannot be used to link processes (as this would contradict ISO). Way out for you: you can model the emitted CO2 as waste, create a new flow for this, and make the capturing process a waste treatment process. I hope this is clear?

Best wishes,

Andeas

Comments

Yes, it does not come from any previous technical process but directly from the atmosphere.  

Keeping this in mind, do you have an idea of how I can model this atmospheric carbon capture and get negative emissions? I just tried putting an elementary flow with a negative amount but for some reason that does not solve the problem.