Insitutional collaboration on CO2 research actions between Norway and China (RANC)

The purpose of RANC is to developing close and durable ties between SINTEF Energy Research, in Norway, and the Tsinghua University (Beijing) and Zhejiang University (Hangzhou), in China, on fundamental matters pertaining to carbon dioxide capture and transport of CO2. Two areas are being pursued: thermo-physical properties and advanced combustion techniques. Throughout four topical workshops, in March and October 2013, in June 2014, and ditto 2015, extensive knowledge has been generously shared and conceptions have been ideated (mainly) across two topical areas: a) thermophysical properties and b) advanced combustion modelling ? all relating to emerging CCS techniques. Now, the challenge is prioritising ideas within a common framework suitable for subsequent joint actions under existing (or possibly upcoming) funding schemes in Norway and China, or via other international funding instruments. One possible framework to assess further is the modelling of CO2 transport systems known as multiple-sources-multiple sinks, although no funding scheme seems yet to be open for such an action. The rationale is, though, that the future will need analytical tools for the strategic planning of new transport systems for piped and tanked CO2, taking into consideration collectible CO2 sources within a region or a nation to be stored or used at various locations. Moreover, this framework will need input, knowledge and specific research, testing and verification, to be provided by all partners. The other framework to further assess is joining efforts in advanced combustion modelling work via direct numerical simulation techniques, using the open Pencil-code (partly developed by SINTEF) and Chinese super computers, thus making a huge step in resolving the Navier-Stokes equations. The rationale is the need for emerging CCS concepts making use of unconventional fuels (especially for conversion in systems employing pre-combustion capture techniques, rich in hydrogen), or using traditional fuels burned unconventionally. It is necessary to improve the predictability of such concepts, even at a micro level. The fourth and last workshop of the RANC project was held in Trondheim in June 2015. Here the two frameworks were taken to a final step, outlining firm proposals. It remains, however, to be seen whether any call for proposals open will be opened for these concepts ? either for both or for either of the two.

Within a period of three years, joint assessments shall be made aimed primarily at identifying, defining and carrying out specific research actions of common interest to further explore under a joint hallmark. Two topical areas form the framework for dev eloping and strengthening the institutional collaboration under this project: a) TA1: Thermophysical characterisation b) TA2: Advanced combustion technologies During the initiating phase of the project, a priority list on specific topics of joint intere st within these areas will be established pursuant to a targeted methodology, referred to as collective intelligence. The rationale is that this approach will require proper personal involvement by key scientists, which is deemed necessary to benefit from the cultural disparities of the partners, and to create the necessary trust and ownership to common objectives and targets. The project will combine innovation, education and research subjected to structured forecasting techniques (Delphi or similar). I n this process, imaginable ways for closing the knowledge gap shall be addressed with emphasis placed on scientific and technological approaches. A selection of appropriate ideas shall be made and be further expanded to a level of precision that enables t he consortium to obtain the required public and private funding to pursue beyond the project, thus, spurring the partners to extend the institutional collaboration into new directions on a highest level of proficiency. Within each topical area, at least t wo new directions to explore will be defined. These directions shall all refer to a subset of scientific and techno-economic criteria responding (preferably) to future needs. Joint institutional research actions planned under this project shall survive th e project by at least three years, and inherently belong to subsequent projects