The Foreman Carbon Capture and Storage FEED (Foreman FEED) seeks develop a carbon capture and storage (CCS) integrated solution to support reduction of carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions associated with cement manufacturing and improve the sustainability of the Ash Grove Foreman Cement Plant in Foreman, Arkansas. This is particularly important as the Foreman Cement Plant is a major employer in the region, employing more than 140 individuals with an annual payroll of more than $12 million.

The Project Team will execute and complete front-end engineering and design (FEED) studies for an integrated CCS system. As part of this, the Project Team will consider Air Liquide’s Cryocap^TM technology as the basis for post-combustion and/or process system CO₂ capture. Cryocap^TM combines Pressure Swing Adsorption (PSA) with cryogenic technology to achieve a high CO₂ recovery rate associated with high purity CO₂. Cryocap^TM is environmentally sustainable as it only requires electricity; does not use any chemicals or flammables; and can manage impurities such as NO_x, SO_x, mercury, and particulate matter. Unlike amine solvents, this technology does not require significant amounts of heat, limiting the risk of integration with the existing plant. 

In parallel, the Project Team will execute a stratigraphic test well to support the development and submission of an EPA UIC Class VI Permit for the permanent storage of CO₂. In addition, the Project Team will submit a NEPA environmental information volume based on an integrated CO₂ capture, transportation, and storage system to identify all potential environmental impacts of an integrated commercial project. The Project will include the development of a refined life cycle analysis informed by the capture FEED assessment, the pipeline FEED assessment, and the storage field development plan. A robust community benefits plan will be developed and deployed in anticipation of subsequent project phases. This plan will include (1) establishing a network of participating universities, including minority serving institutions; (2) deploying an educational and employment program focused on increasing access to clean energy information and career opportunities; and (3) engaging with local stakeholders to discuss the ambitions of the project and to address potential community concerns. 

The Foreman FEED is expected to occur over a 33-month period and is led by the Southern States Energy Board (applicant, PI: Kenneth Nemeth). The Project Team consists of Advanced Resources International, Ash Grove Cement (site host), Crescent Resource Innovation, and Air Liquide.