- ABS has granted Approval in Principle (AiP) to Overseas Shipholding Group, Inc. for a first-of-its-kind liquefied carbon dioxide (LCO₂) articulated tug and barge (ATB) unit, supporting U.S. carbon capture and storage initiatives.
- The barge is a key component of the Tampa Regional Intermodal Carbon Hub (T-RICH), designed to collect and transport CO₂ emissions from Florida industries to regional sequestration sites.
- The vessel features medium-pressure Type-C tanks with a 20,000 metric ton capacity, and future developments aim to incorporate green methanol fuel technology for enhanced sustainability.
The American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) has awarded an Approval in Principle (AiP) to Overseas Shipholding Group, Inc. (OSG), the parent company of Aptamus Carbon Solutions, for the conceptual design of a liquefied carbon dioxide (LCO₂) barge. This recognition marks a significant step forward in carbon capture and transport innovation within the United States, according to Business Wire.
Integration into the Tampa Regional Intermodal Carbon Hub (T-RICH)
The LCO₂ barge design is a central element of the Tampa Regional Intermodal Carbon Hub (T-RICH) initiative. This project aims to facilitate the reception, storage, and processing of industrial emissions from across Florida, preparing them for transport to designated sequestration locations.
Innovative Articulated Tug and Barge (ATB) System
This pioneering barge system is the first articulated tug and barge unit designed specifically for LCO₂ transport in the U.S. carbon capture sector. It incorporates a cargo handling system featuring medium-pressure Type-C tanks, enabling the carriage of up to 20,000 metric tons of liquefied CO₂. The maximum operating pressure was determined based on historical performance data, market analyses, and operational needs such as loading capacity and cargo holding time.
Rigorous Design Evaluation and Compliance with ABS Standards
ABS performed comprehensive reviews of the design following their latest requirements for building and classing liquefied gas tank barges. These assessments ensure that the barge adheres to the highest standards of safety and performance in marine gas transport.
Aptamus’ Role in the U.S. Carbon Transport Landscape
Jeffrey Ross Williams, President of Aptamus, emphasized the significance of this AiP as a landmark in the company’s mission to lead U.S. efforts in CO₂ storage and maritime transport. He highlighted the importance of advancing maritime technology to meet national emission reduction goals and to capitalize on opportunities presented by the global energy transition.
Future-Focused and Environmentally Conscious Design Enhancements
Kent Merrill, Vice President of Marine Projects at Aptamus, noted that the use of ATBs—common in the transportation of petroleum products—offers proven efficiency and versatility that can also benefit the emerging LCO₂ market. He revealed that future developments will include designing the tug to run on green methanol or other sustainable fuels, further aligning the project with environmental goals.
Collaboration and Engineering Partnerships
The project reflects a strong collaboration between ABS and key engineering firms such as Corban Energy Group and Herbert Engineering Corporation. Their combined expertise supports the continued development of this first-of-its-kind vessel, setting a benchmark for sustainable carbon transport solutions in U.S. coastal waters.
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Source: Business Wire
