Saipem has already developed an enzyme-based carbon capture technology, which the two companies will work together to advance. The Italian firm will provide the process and mechanical and equipment design, while Novozymes will supply enzymes for Saipem’s customer base and further optimize the process.

Carbon capture and storage technologies are regarded as an effective route for industrial decarbonization. Traditional processes rely on amines to extract CO₂ from flue gas, but enzymatic carbon capture uses carbonates and biological components for the extraction, which it does at lower temperatures. The enzymatic process is also said to be more reliable and less corrosive because it does not use the solvents employed in the traditional route.  

The technology, said Novozymes, has potential to significantly reduce chemical and energy use of the carbon capture process. Simultaneously, using enzymes instead of amines eliminates the need to clean wastewater as they leave no harmful waste products.

Amy Byrick, executive vice president of strategy & business transformation at Novozymes, commented: “As part of our strategy, Novozymes is committed to delivering biological solutions that enable a healthier planet and our collaboration with Saipem helps us fulfil our ambition to explore new growth opportunities while accelerating the battle against climate change.”

Author: Elaine Burridge, Freelance Journalist