An integrated, multi-scale modelling approach for the simulation of multiphase dispersion from accidental CO2 pipeline releases in realistic terrain

The deployment of a complete carbon capture and storage chain requires a focus upon the hazards posed by the operation of pipelines transporting carbon dioxide (CO2) at high pressure in a dense-phase (supercritical or liquid state). The consequences of an intentional or accidental release from such pipelines must be considered as an integral part of the design process. There are a number of unique challenges to modelling these releases due to the unusual phase-transition behaviour of CO2. Additionally, few experimental observations of large-scale CO2 releases have been made, and the physics and thermochemistry involved are not fully understood. This work provides an overview of elements of the EC FP7 CO2PipeHaz project, whose overall aim is to address these important and pressing issues, and to develop and validate mathematical models for multiphase discharge and dispersion from CO2 pipelines. These are demonstrated here upon a full-scale pipeline release scenario, in which dense-phase CO2 is released from a full-bore 36-in. pipeline rupture into a crater, and the resulting multiphase CO2 plume disperses over complex terrain, featuring hills and valleys. This demonstration case is specifically designed to illustrate the integration of different models for the pipeline outflow, near-field and far-field dispersion.