Research areas include:

• Modelling and simulations
• Multiphase flow in pipes and process equipment
• Environmentally friendly gaspower
• Hydrogen technology
• Condensation and gas mixtures, LNG technology
• Process technology
• Low-temperature thermodynamics
• CO₂ technology
• High-pressure processing

In the North Sea, considerable savings are possible by transporting oil and gas in the same pipeline. Norway has already invested several hundred million kroner in multiphase flow R&D. The group is involved in a national strategic R&D programme which will prepare the ground for the next generation of multiphase flow simulators.

The new technology will be applied for systems operating under high pressures and low temperatures, and problems that will demand much more detailed modelling than previously. The separation of oil, gas and water represents a considerable challenge for the offshore industry and consequently we are doing research with complex fluids such as emulsions. We are also working on the problems associated with environmentally beneficial gaspower, such as separating CO₂ from natural gas and combustion gases as well as solutions for depositing CO₂ in offshore reservoirs.

The group is also coordinating work on hydrogen at SINTEF and NTNU, which includes a feasibility study of the market for hydrogen in Norway. We are also working on the pretreatment of natural gas, liquefaction, transport, storage and distribution of LNG. As more stringent regulations are being placed on emissions of VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) in Europe, we are working on systems for the recovery of VOC-emissions from oil- and gas tankers as well as the modelling of VOC generation.