Measurement and RANS modelling of large-scale under-expanded CO2 releases for CCS applications

The deployment of a complete carbon-capture and storage chain requires a focus upon the hazards posed by the operation of CO2 pipelines, and the consequences of accidental release must be considered as an integral part of the design process. Presented are results from the application of a shock-capturing numerical scheme to the solution of the Favre-averaged Navier-Stokes fluid-flow equations, coupled with a compressibility-corrected turbulence model, and a novel equation of state for CO2. Comparisons are made with a series of as-yet unreported experimental observations of field-scale, high-pressure CO2 releases. The effects of corrections to the solenoidal turbulence energy dissipation are tested, with conclusions drawn, and recommendations made for future developments.