We are helping to accelerate the development and deployment of Carbon Capture Storage (CCS) technology on natural gas power plants.

Key facts

    • The Gas-FACTS project provided important underpinning research for UK Carbon Capture Storage (CCS) development and deployment on natural gas power plants.
    • We were involved in experiments and modelling works which studied the innovative selective gas recycling technology for a natural gas cycle.
    • A 100kW (kilowatt) pilot-scale CO2 membrane rig - unique to the UK - was designed and installed on campus in the Energy Technology Laboratory.
    • The £3 million project saw us partner with the universities of Edinburgh, Leeds, Sheffield and Imperial College London.
  • Funded by Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC), supported by £212,000 funding / investment from Cranfield

Impact of our research

The experimental data we were able to gather from the unique membrane rig facilities produced comprehensive data for our simulation models. These results then provided an essential basis for further research which can advance this technology to help meet emissions targets while making the most of low natural gas prices.

The project also developed rigorous assessment methods and a framework to maximise pathways to impact that could support other Research Councils UK (RCUK) research activities on gas CCS.

Why the research was commissioned

The Gas-FACTS project provided important underpinning research for UK Carbon Capture Storage (CCS) development and deployment for carbon capture in natural gas power plants.

We studied the innovative selective gas recycle technology in a natural gas combined cycle; further research is likely in the second phase of the project which is currently being discussed.

Why Cranfield?

Due to our extensive experience on Carbon Capture Storage (CCS), we were involved in both the experimental and modelling work.

A 100kW CO2 membrane rig - unique to the UK - was installed on campus to investigate how selective exhaust gas recirculation and CO2 selective membrane technology can enhance how CO2 is captured in gas turbine combustion systems. The rig has two separate flue gas recirculation loops – one has a CO2 selective sweep air membrane that gases pass through and the second is able to provide simulated flue gases for comparison.

We also developed a small-scale membrane (cold) model to help characterisation, such as permeability and selectivity, of the membrane polymeric materials.

Facilities used

  • Pilot scale CO2 membrane rig (100kW)

  • Bench scale CO2 membrane rig (cold model)


CO2 Membrane Rig
Pilot scale CO2 membrane rig (100kW)