Onboard CO₂ capture through modular, integrable systems for maritime applications
Project leads
The project is led by Seabound, a UK-based company specialising in carbon capture technologies for the maritime sector.
The initiative involves collaboration with different industry stakeholders, including shipping and industrial companies such as Heidelberg Materials, as well as support from organisations like the European Space Agency during its scaling phase.
Project description
This innovation case focuses on the development of carbon capture and storage (CCS) systems integrated directly onboard ships through modular units, with a format similar to a standard 20-foot container.
Specifically, the system captures CO₂ from the exhaust gases generated by ship engines. In addition to CO₂, it also reduces sulphur emissions, contributing to compliance with environmental regulations.
From a technological perspective, the project follows a retrofit approach, meaning it can be adapted to existing vessels, facilitating integration without requiring a complete redesign of the ship.
Regarding the captured CO₂, it is retained within onboard modules for subsequent onshore handling, where it is unloaded in solid form for storage or potential reuse in industrial applications, such as the production and use of materials like green lime, with the aim of progressing towards net-positive capture models.
The project has already completed testing in controlled environments (including land-based trials using diesel generators) and is currently transitioning towards real operational deployment. The first commercial-scale units have been validated and are planned for installation on the vessel UBC Cork, marking the shift from pilot projects to initial operational deployment.
Project objectives
The objective of the project is to develop onboard modular CCS systems as a tool to reduce emissions in maritime transport.
Additionally, it aims to advance modular and integrable solutions that can be applied to existing fleets, supporting the transition towards lower-impact operational models and contributing to new decarbonisation strategies in the maritime sector.
Publication date
April 15, 2026
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