Integrated deep sea mining and carbon dioxide sequestration system

Abstract

The application relates to the technical field of deep-sea mining, and discloses a deep-sea mining and carbon dioxide storage integrated system which comprises a floating platform, a low-temperature carbon dioxide storage tank and a mineral storage box, a relay bin for storing substances, a first conveying pipe in communication with the low-temperature carbon dioxide storage tank at one end and in communication with the relay bin at the other end, a second conveying pipe in communication with the mineral storage box at one end and in communication with the relay bin at the other end, a lifting pump arranged in the second conveying pipe, a mineral collecting device for collecting minerals, a conveying device in communication with the relay bin at one end and detachably connected with the mineral collecting device at the other end, the conveying device being used for inputting liquid carbon dioxide into the mineral collecting device when the conveying device is connected with the mineral collecting device, and the conveying device being used for storing the liquid carbon dioxide when the connection is disconnected, and a carbon dioxide storage device in communication with the relay bin and used for solidifying the carbon dioxide when the mineral collecting device is connected with the conveying device. The system can meet various use requirements.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of energy conservation and emission reduction technology in deep-sea mining, for example, to an integrated system for deep-sea mining and carbon dioxide sequestration. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, existing deep-sea mining systems mainly employ a configuration of "subsea mining vehicle + flexible hose + relay compartment + rigid pipe + slurry mixing pump". Transporting deep-sea resources to the surface using a complex mobile collection system necessitates the use of long pipelines as transport channels, and the slurry mixing pump consumes significant energy to deliver the slurry to the surface support system on the mining vessel for processing. Furthermore, the massive amounts of carbon dioxide generated by deep-sea mining systems from the consumption of fossil fuels are environmentally unfriendly. Therefore, how to effectively utilize and store the carbon dioxide generated by deep-sea mining systems to achieve energy conservation and emission reduction is a pressing technical problem that needs to be solved by those skilled in the art.

[0003] The related technology discloses an integrated system for deep-sea mining and carbon dioxide sequestration, including a seabed mining device, a hoisting hose, a slurry relay bin, a slurry pump, a slurry delivery pipeline, and a surface support system. It also includes a CO2 processing and sequestration device, a CO2 delivery hose, a CO2 relay bin, a CO2 turbine, and a CO2 delivery pipeline. The surface support system is equipped with a slurry processing device and a CO2 cryogenic storage tank. The slurry processing device is used to process and collect the slurry, and the CO2 cryogenic storage tank is used to store the CO2 generated during the slurry processing. The inlet of the CO2 delivery pipeline is connected to the CO2 cryogenic storage tank, and the outlet of the CO2 delivery pipeline is connected to the CO2 relay bin. The CO2 turbine is installed in the CO2... On the delivery pipeline, the CO2 turbine is movably connected to the slurry pump, and the CO2 turbine and the slurry pump are used in a one-to-one matching manner; one end of the CO2 delivery hose is connected to the CO2 relay chamber, and the other end of the CO2 delivery hose is connected to the CO2 treatment and storage device; the CO2 treatment and storage device is installed on the seabed mining equipment. The CO2 treatment and storage device is used to separate the slurry based on extraction power supply, and to transport the usable slurry particles and seabed slurry mixture upward to the lifting hose. The liquid CO2, the remaining emissions after separation, and seawater are discharged through the discharge device. During the discharge process through the discharge device, the liquid CO2 uses the emission microparticles in the discharge plume as crystal nuclei to generate CO2 hydrates and store them on the seabed.

[0004] In the process of implementing the embodiments of this disclosure, at least the following problems were found in the related art:

[0005] The related technologies have a single operating mode, which can only achieve carbon dioxide sequestration when the seabed mining equipment is working. They cannot perform carbon dioxide sequestration independently when mining is not in progress, nor can they perform mining operations independently. Therefore, they cannot meet a variety of usage requirements. Moreover, carbon sequestration is carried out by generating carbon dioxide hydrates, but the microparticles in the emissions that can serve as nuclei to generate carbon dioxide hydrates are only a very small part of the emissions, resulting in low sequestration efficiency and poor sequestration effect. Finally, small particulate impurities and seabed mud generated during the treatment process cannot be effectively treated and cannot be used for the repair of seabed craters.

[0006] It should be noted that the information disclosed in the background section above is only used to enhance the understanding of the background of this application, and therefore may include information that does not constitute prior art known to those skilled in the art. Summary of the Invention

[0007] To provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the disclosed embodiments, a brief summary is given below. This summary is not intended as a general commentary, nor is it intended to identify key / important components or describe the scope of protection of these embodiments, but rather as a prelude to the detailed description that follows.

[0008] This disclosure provides an integrated system for deep-sea mining and carbon dioxide storage to address the problems of existing integrated systems for deep-sea mining and carbon dioxide storage having a single working mode and poor storage effect.

[0009] An embodiment of the first aspect of this application provides an integrated system for deep-sea mining and carbon dioxide sequestration. The system includes: a floating platform equipped with a cryogenic carbon dioxide storage tank and an ore storage container; a relay warehouse located below the floating platform for storing materials; a first conveying pipe, one end connected to the cryogenic carbon dioxide storage tank and the other end connected to the relay warehouse, so that carbon dioxide in the cryogenic carbon dioxide storage tank can be pumped into the relay warehouse via an output pump along the first conveying pipe; and a second conveying pipe, one end connected to the ore storage container and the other end connected to the relay warehouse, so that ore in the relay warehouse can be transported to the ore storage container. A container; a booster pump, located on the second conveying pipe, for boosting ore; an ore collection device, for collecting ore; a conveying device, one end connected to the relay bin and the other end detachably connected to the ore collection device. When the conveying device is connected to the ore collection device, it is used to input liquid carbon dioxide from the relay bin into the ore collection device and input ore into the relay bin. When the conveying device is disconnected from the ore collection device, it is only used to seal the liquid carbon dioxide; a carbon dioxide sealing device, connected to the relay bin, is used to solidify the liquid carbon dioxide when the ore collection device is connected to the conveying device, in order to seal the liquid carbon dioxide.

[0010] The integrated deep-sea mining and carbon dioxide sequestration system provided in this disclosure can achieve the following technical effects:

[0011] The integrated deep-sea mining and carbon dioxide sequestration system has multiple operating modes. In one mode, only carbon dioxide sequestration can be performed. In this mode, the conveyor device is disconnected from the ore collection device, allowing the liquid carbon dioxide in the relay chamber to flow out along the conveyor device to below the seabed mud line, thus achieving liquid carbon dioxide sequestration. In another mode, only mining operations can be performed. In this mode, the conveyor device is connected to the ore collection device. First, liquid carbon dioxide is temporarily stored in the mining vehicle. Then, the ore slurry collected by the ore collection device is transported to the relay chamber, and then it can be transferred to the ore storage tank along the second conveyor pipe. In yet another mode, both ore mining and carbon dioxide sequestration can be performed. In this mode, the conveyor device is connected to the ore collection device, storing liquid carbon dioxide in the mining vehicle at once and transporting the ore slurry back to the relay chamber. Meanwhile, the carbon dioxide sequestration device operates, mixing excess liquid carbon dioxide with slag, seabed mud, and solidifying agents inside the relay chamber to achieve carbon sequestration. This allows for the fulfillment of various application requirements.

[0012] The above general description and the description below are exemplary and illustrative only and are not intended to limit this application. Attached Figure Description

[0013] One or more embodiments are illustrated by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings. These illustrations and drawings do not constitute a limitation on the embodiments. Elements having the same reference numerals in the drawings are shown as similar elements. The drawings are not to be scaled. And wherein:

[0014] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of an integrated deep-sea mining and carbon dioxide storage system provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0015] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the carbon sequestration working mode provided in the embodiments of this disclosure;

[0016] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the deep-sea mining operation mode provided in this embodiment of the disclosure;

[0017] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure in which deep-sea mining and carbon sequestration modes are carried out simultaneously, as provided in the embodiments of this disclosure.

[0018] Figure 5 This is a partial structural schematic diagram of another deep-sea mining and carbon dioxide storage integrated system provided in this disclosure embodiment;

[0019] Figure 6This is a cross-sectional structural schematic diagram of an integrated deep-sea mining and carbon dioxide storage system provided in an embodiment of this disclosure.

[0020] Figure label:

[0021] 10: Floating platform; 101: Cryogenic carbon dioxide storage tank; 102: Ore storage box; 11: First conveying pipe; 12: Second conveying pipe; 13: Booster pump; 14: Output pump.

[0022] 20: Relay bin; 21: Screen; 22: Filter screen;

[0023] 30: Ore collection device; 31: Mining vehicle; 32: Carbon dioxide jet collection head.

[0024] 40: Conveying device; 41: Flexible transmission pipe; 411: First pipe section; 412: Second pipe section; 413: Connector; 414: Carbon dioxide jet sealing pipe; 42: Bidirectional centrifugal pump; 43: Screw conveyor; 431: Porous guide vanes.

[0025] 50: Carbon dioxide storage device; 51: Carbon dioxide treatment box; 52: Curing agent storage box; 53: Carbon dioxide conveying pipe; 54: Slag conveying pipe; 55: Discharge pipe; 56: Mixing device; 57: First conveying pump; 58: Material pump; 59: Second conveying pump. Detailed Implementation

[0026] To provide a more detailed understanding of the features and technical content of the embodiments of this disclosure, the implementation of the embodiments of this disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The accompanying drawings are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the embodiments of this disclosure. In the following technical description, for ease of explanation, several details are used to provide a full understanding of the disclosed embodiments. However, one or more embodiments may still be implemented without these details. In other cases, well-known structures and devices may be simplified in their depiction to simplify the drawings.

[0027] The terms "first," "second," etc., used in the specification, claims, and accompanying drawings of this disclosure are used to distinguish similar objects and are not necessarily used to describe a specific order or sequence. It should be understood that such data can be interchanged where appropriate for describing embodiments of this disclosure herein. Furthermore, the terms "comprising" and "having," and any variations thereof, are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion.

[0028] In this disclosure, the terms "upper," "lower," "inner," "middle," "outer," "front," and "rear," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. These terms are primarily for better description of the embodiments of this disclosure and their implementations, and are not intended to limit the indicated devices, elements, or components to having a specific orientation, or to require them to be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Furthermore, some of the aforementioned terms may be used to indicate other meanings besides orientation or positional relationship; for example, the term "upper" may in some cases indicate a dependency or connection relationship. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of these terms in the embodiments of this disclosure according to the specific circumstances.

[0029] Furthermore, the terms "set up," "connect," and "fix" should be interpreted broadly. For example, "connection" can be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral structure; it can be a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; it can be a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium, or it can be an internal connection between two devices, components, or parts. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in the embodiments of this disclosure according to the specific circumstances.

[0030] Unless otherwise stated, the term "multiple" means two or more.

[0031] In this embodiment of the disclosure, the character " / " indicates that the objects before and after it are in an "or" relationship. For example, A / B means: A or B.

[0032] The term "and / or" describes an association between objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B means: A or B, or A and B.

[0033] It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, the embodiments and features described in the present disclosure can be combined with each other.

[0034] Combination Figures 1 to 6As shown in the figure, this disclosure provides an integrated system for deep-sea mining and carbon dioxide sequestration. The system includes a floating platform 10, equipped with a cryogenic carbon dioxide storage tank 101 and an ore storage box 102; a relay bin 20, located below the floating platform 10, for storing materials; a first conveying pipe 11, one end connected to the cryogenic carbon dioxide storage tank 101 and the other end connected to the relay bin 20, so that carbon dioxide in the cryogenic carbon dioxide storage tank 101 can be sent into the relay bin 20 via an output pump 14 along the first conveying pipe 11; a second conveying pipe 12, one end connected to the ore storage box and the other end connected to the relay bin 20, so that ore in the relay bin 20 can be conveyed to the ore storage box; and a second conveying pipe 12, one end connected to the ore storage box and the other end connected to the relay bin 20, so that ore in the relay bin 20 can be transported to the ore storage box. A booster pump 13, located on the second conveying pipe 12, is used to lift ore; an ore collection device 30 is used to collect ore; a conveying device 40, one end of which is connected to the relay chamber 20 and the other end is detachably connected to the ore collection device 30, is used to input liquid carbon dioxide from the relay chamber 20 into the ore collection device 30 and to input ore into the relay chamber 20 when the conveying device 40 is disconnected from the ore collection device 30, and is only used to seal liquid carbon dioxide; a carbon dioxide sealing device 50, connected to the relay chamber 20, is used to solidify liquid carbon dioxide when the ore collection device 30 is connected to the conveying device 40, in order to seal liquid carbon dioxide.

[0035] The deep-sea mining and carbon dioxide sequestration integrated system provided in this embodiment has multiple operating modes. In one operating mode, only carbon dioxide sequestration can be performed. In this mode, the conveying device 40 is disconnected from the ore collection device 30, allowing the liquid carbon dioxide in the relay chamber 20 to flow out along the conveying device 40 to below the seabed mudline, thus achieving the sequestration of liquid carbon dioxide and ensuring the effectiveness of carbon dioxide sequestration. In another operating mode, only mining operations can be performed. In this mode, the conveying device 40 is connected to the ore collection device 30. First, the liquid carbon dioxide is temporarily stored in the mining vehicle 31. Then, the ore slurry collected by the ore collection device 30 is transported to the relay chamber 20 through the conveying device 40, and then transported to the ore storage tank along the second conveying pipe 12. In another operating mode, both ore mining and carbon dioxide sequestration can be performed simultaneously. In this mode, the conveying device 40 is connected to the ore collection device 30, storing liquid carbon dioxide in the mining vehicle 31 and transporting the slurry back to the relay bin 20. Meanwhile, the carbon dioxide sequestration device 50 operates, mixing excess liquid carbon dioxide with slag, seabed mud, and solidifying agent inside the relay bin 20 to achieve carbon sequestration. This can meet multiple usage requirements.

[0036] Optionally, the deep-sea mining and carbon dioxide sequestration integrated system also includes: an output pump 14, located on the first delivery pipe 11, for driving the carbon dioxide in the cryogenic carbon dioxide storage tank 101 to flow into the relay chamber 20.

[0037] In this way, by setting up the output pump 14, the output pump 14 can actively drive the fluid flow to ensure delivery efficiency. In different working modes (such as separate storage, separate mining, and mining and storage in parallel), the output pump 14 can dynamically adjust the flow rate and pressure to achieve precise control.

[0038] Optionally, the conveying device 40 includes: a flexible transmission pipe 41, one end of which is connected to the middle of the relay chamber 20, and the other end of which is detachably connected to the ore collection device 30; a bidirectional centrifugal pump 42, disposed on the flexible transmission pipe 41, used to drive the liquid carbon dioxide in the relay chamber 20 to flow out or to input slurry into the relay chamber 20. A carbon dioxide jet sealing pipe 414 is disposed on the bidirectional centrifugal pump 42 and inserted into the seabed for sealing carbon dioxide on the seabed.

[0039] Thus, by setting up a flexible transmission pipe 41, the flexibility of the pipe allows for several advantages. First, when the flexible transmission pipe 41 is connected to the ore collection device 30, the ore collection device 30 can be moved freely, ensuring its operating range. Second, when the flexible transmission pipe 41 is disconnected from the ore collection device 30, the storage location for liquid carbon dioxide can be arbitrarily selected, increasing the storage area without frequent movement of the floating platform 10 and the relay chamber 20. Stable carbon dioxide storage is achieved by inserting a carbon dioxide jet storage pipe 414 into the seabed mudline. The bidirectional centrifugal pump 42 not only drives the flow of materials within the flexible transmission pipe 41 but also allows for the storage of carbon dioxide and the transfer of only ore, depending on the flow direction within the flexible transmission pipe 41, eliminating the need for multiple pipelines and reducing system complexity.

[0040] Optionally, the ore collection device 30 includes a mining vehicle 31, which is equipped with a carbon dioxide jet collection head 32.

[0041] In this way, the ore extraction device 30 can use liquid carbon dioxide as the injection source without the need for additional separate devices. This not only reduces the complexity of the system, but also eliminates the energy consumption of the seawater pump required for traditional hydraulic mining, thus reducing the system's energy consumption.

[0042] Optionally, the conveying device 40 further includes: a screw conveyor 43 with porous guide vanes 431, the upper end of the screw conveyor 43 being connected to the other end of the flexible transmission pipe 41, and the lower end of the screw conveyor 43 being connected to the mining vehicle 31. The screw conveyor 43 is used to separate liquid carbon dioxide and minerals.

[0043] In this way, when the mining vehicle 31 transports the collected slurry along the flexible transmission pipe 41 to the relay chamber 20, it will contain some liquid carbon dioxide. Through the screw conveyor 43, the mixture of minerals, seawater, and liquid carbon dioxide enters the screw conveyor 43 via the mining vehicle 31. The minerals are lifted upwards by the rotation of the porous guide vanes 431 and enter the flexible mineral lifting pipe, while the liquid flows back to the mining vehicle 31 through the pores. This not only prevents the liquid carbon dioxide in the ore collection device 30 from being transported to the relay chamber 20 with the slurry, improving system efficiency and achieving carbon dioxide recycling, and increasing the carbon dioxide storage capacity of the mining vehicle 31, but also prevents the minerals in the relay chamber 20 from being transported back to the ore collection device 30 by the flexible transmission pipe, further improving system efficiency. The screw conveyor 43 is a closed structure, which isolates the seawater from the internal materials.

[0044] Optionally, the deep-sea mining and carbon dioxide sequestration integrated system also includes: a filter screen 22, which is movably disposed at the connection between the relay chamber 20 and the flexible transmission pipe 41. When the flexible transmission pipe 41 transmits liquid carbon dioxide, the filter screen 22 is in the first position, completely blocking the connection between the relay chamber 20 and the flexible transmission pipe 41 to filter the liquid flowing into the flexible transmission pipe 41; when the flexible transmission pipe 41 transmits slurry, the filter screen 22 is in the second position, avoiding the connection between the relay chamber 20 and the flexible transmission pipe 41, so that the flexible transmission pipe 41 can transmit slurry to the relay chamber 20.

[0045] Combination Figure 3 As shown, the filter 22 is in the second position to facilitate the input of slurry into the relay chamber 20. In this way, by setting the filter 22, the situation where the ore in the relay chamber 20 flows back into the flexible transmission pipe 41 can be avoided without affecting the ore entering the relay chamber.

[0046] Optionally, the upper end of the filter screen 22 is slidably connected to the relay chamber 20. The deep-sea mining and carbon dioxide storage integrated system also includes an electric motor, which is driven to connect to the filter screen 22 and is used to drive the filter screen 22 to switch between the first position and the second position.

[0047] This allows the filter 22 to automatically switch between the first and second positions.

[0048] Optionally, the upper end of the filter screen 22 is rotatably connected to the relay chamber 20. When the flexible transmission pipe 41 transmits liquid carbon dioxide from the relay chamber 20 to the outside, the filter screen 22 is in the first position; when the flexible transmission pipe 41 delivers slurry into the relay chamber 20, the filter screen 22 rotates to the second position.

[0049] This eliminates the need for additional electrical devices, reducing the system's energy consumption.

[0050] Optionally, the deep-sea mining and carbon dioxide sequestration integrated system also includes a screen 21, which is located at the bottom of the relay chamber 20 and laid flat, for filtering the slurry to separate the ore from the slag.

[0051] In this way, by setting up the screen 21, the slurry flowing into the relay chamber 20 from the flexible transmission pipe 41 can be screened to separate the target ore, small particles of slag, and seabed mud, thereby purifying the slurry. In addition, the preliminary filtration of the incoming slurry by the screen can also improve the purity of the ore.

[0052] Optionally, the screen 21 is movably connected to the relay bin and can be automatically raised and lowered via internal slide rails to adjust its position in different modes. In carbon sequestration mode only, the screen 21 is located at the first position, approximately 1 / 5 of the way up from the top of the relay bin 20; when mining or mining and carbon sequestration are carried out simultaneously, the screen is located at the second position, approximately 1 / 5 of the way up from the bottom of the relay bin 20, to facilitate ore hoisting operations.

[0053] In one embodiment, the carbon dioxide storage device 50 includes: a carbon dioxide processing tank 51; a curing agent storage tank 52 disposed inside the carbon dioxide processing tank 51, and the curing agent storage tank 52 having an opening for storing curing agent; a carbon dioxide conveying pipe 53, one end of which is connected to the relay chamber 20 and the other end of which is connected to the carbon dioxide processing tank 51; a slag conveying pipe 54, one end of which is connected to the bottom of the relay chamber 20 and the other end of which is connected to the carbon dioxide processing tank 51; and a discharge pipe 55, one end of which is connected to the carbon dioxide processing tank 51 and the other end of which extends to the outside, so as to discharge the products in the carbon dioxide processing tank 51.

[0054] By setting up the carbon dioxide delivery pipe 53, carbon dioxide in the relay bin 20 can be transported to the carbon dioxide treatment box 51 along the carbon dioxide delivery pipe 53. By setting up the slag conveying pipe 54, the slag at the bottom of the relay bin 20 can flow to the carbon dioxide treatment box 51 along the slag conveying pipe 54, realizing automated transportation using gravity or pressure, reducing energy consumption and operational complexity. By setting up the solidifying agent storage box 52, the solidifying agent can be placed in the solidifying agent storage box 52. By setting up the solidifying agent storage box 52, the carbon dioxide and slag in the carbon dioxide treatment box 51 can react under the action of the solidifying agent to generate a stable mixture. When the solidifying agent is not used, the opening is sealed. The slag reaction generates a stable mixture, which permanently fixes the carbon dioxide in a chemical form, preventing it from being released back into the atmosphere. Through the solidification reaction, carbon dioxide is converted into harmless solid products, significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions. At the same time, the reuse of slag reduces the environmental risk of solid waste accumulation. By setting up the discharge pipe 55, the mixture generated in the carbon dioxide treatment box 51 can flow out of the carbon dioxide treatment box 51 along the discharge pipe 55.

[0055] Optionally, the opening of the curing agent storage box 52 is provided with a movable baffle that moves between an open opening position and a closed opening position to open or close the opening.

[0056] Optionally, the curing agent is an alkaline solution.

[0057] Specifically, the curing agent is an alkaline solution of calcium hydroxide.

[0058] Optionally, the carbon dioxide storage device 50 further includes a stirring device 56, which is located inside the carbon dioxide treatment tank 51 and is used to stir carbon dioxide and slag.

[0059] Thus, by incorporating the stirring device 56, carbon dioxide and slag can be thoroughly stirred, ensuring sufficient contact between the carbon dioxide, slag, and solidifying agent, thus preventing uneven concentrations or stratification. Secondly, since the slag may contain unreacted solid particles or precipitates, stirring prevents their accumulation at the bottom of the carbon dioxide treatment tank 51. Furthermore, it can break up large particles or agglomerates in the slag, increasing the effective contact area with carbon dioxide and improving the reaction rate and thoroughness.

[0060] Optionally, both the carbon dioxide conveying pipe 53 and the slag conveying pipe 54 are flexible pipes.

[0061] In this way, the position of the carbon dioxide treatment box 51 can be flexibly adjusted, and the mixture can be used to fill the erosion pit of the ore collection device 30, reducing the damage of mining to the seabed environment.

[0062] Optionally, the carbon dioxide storage device 50 further includes a first delivery pump 57, which is located inside the carbon dioxide processing tank 51 and connected to the carbon dioxide delivery pipe 53, to control the on / off state and flow rate of the carbon dioxide delivery pipe 53.

[0063] In this way, by placing the first transfer pump 57 inside the carbon dioxide treatment tank 51, damage to the first transfer pump 57 due to collisions with seabed objects can be avoided. Moreover, by installing the first transfer pump 57 in the carbon dioxide transfer pipe 53, the opening and closing of the first transfer pump 57 can control the on / off state and flow rate of the carbon dioxide transfer pipe 53.

[0064] Optionally, the carbon dioxide storage device 50 further includes a pump 58, which is located inside the carbon dioxide treatment tank 51 and is connected to the slag conveying pipe 54. The pump 58 is used to control the on / off state and flow rate of the slag conveying pipe 54.

[0065] By placing the pump 58 inside the carbon dioxide treatment tank 51, damage to the pump 58 due to collisions with seabed objects can be avoided. Furthermore, by installing the pump 58 on the slag conveying pipe 54, the opening and closing of the pump 58 can control the on / off state of the pipe and the flow rate, facilitating intelligent control while completely removing the slag and liquid carbon dioxide from the relay bin.

[0066] Specifically, the connection between the second output pipe and the relay bin is located on the bottom wall of the relay bin 10 to ensure the extraction effect of the pump 58.

[0067] Optionally, the carbon dioxide storage device 50 further includes a second delivery pump 59, which is disposed in the discharge pipe 55 and is used to drive the material in the discharge pipe 55 to flow out of the discharge pipe 55.

[0068] In this way, by setting a second delivery pump 59, which drives the mixture to flow out of the carbon dioxide treatment tank 51 along the discharge pipe 55, the situation of the mixture clogging the discharge pipe 55 or filling the carbon dioxide treatment tank 51 can be avoided.

[0069] Optionally, the deep-sea mining and carbon dioxide storage integrated system also includes a filtration device located at the connection between the carbon dioxide delivery pipe 53 and the relay chamber 20, which is used to filter the fluid flowing into the carbon dioxide delivery pipe 53.

[0070] In this way, by setting up a filtration device, it is possible to prevent liquid carbon dioxide from flowing into the carbon dioxide delivery pipe 53 and bringing in other impurities or ores, which could cause the carbon dioxide delivery pipe 53 to become blocked or bring other impurities into the carbon dioxide treatment tank 51.

[0071] Alternatively, the filtration device can be a filter screen or an activated carbon filter.

[0072] Optionally, the system includes a controller, which is electrically connected to the booster pump, output pump, mining car, bidirectional centrifugal pump, screw conveyor, mixing device, first conveying pump, and extraction pump. The controller is used to control the start and stop of each component.

[0073] In one embodiment, when the deep-sea mining and carbon dioxide sequestration integrated system is simultaneously mining and carbon dioxide sequestration, the system operates as follows.

[0074] Specifically, in combination Figure 4 As shown, Figure 4 The middle arrow indicates the direction of fluid flow within the pipe. Figure 4The lower arrow of the conveying device 40 indicates the direction of carbon dioxide transport, and the upper arrow indicates the direction of ore transport. Step 1: The controller activates the output pump 14 to allow the cryogenic carbon dioxide storage tank 101 of the floating platform 10 to transport liquid carbon dioxide downwards. The liquid carbon dioxide enters the relay chamber 20 for temporary storage. Step 2: The controller activates the bidirectional centrifugal pump 42, which rotates forward to input the carbon dioxide from the relay chamber 20 into the mining car 31 for temporary storage. Step 3: The controller activates the mining car 31, which uses a jet of liquid carbon dioxide to collect ore. Step 4: The controller reverses the rotation of the bidirectional centrifugal pump 42 and activates the screw conveyor 43. Liquid carbon dioxide and ore enter the screw conveyor 43 for screening. The ore is lifted upwards by the rotation of the porous guide vanes 431, while the liquid carbon dioxide flows back into the mining car 31 for recycling. The ore is transported into the relay chamber 20 via the bidirectional centrifugal pump 42. Some small slag particles or seabed mud fall below the screen 21 or directly into the carbon dioxide treatment tank. Within step 51, the initial sorting and purification of minerals are simultaneously achieved; Step 5: The minerals are extracted with carbon dioxide to become usable ore and small-particle slag and impurities such as seabed mud, with the remaining impurities falling below screen 21; Step 6: The controller controls the first conveying pump 57 to start, so as to transport part of the liquid carbon dioxide in the relay bin 20 into the carbon dioxide storage tank; Step 7: The controller controls the material pump 58 to start, so as to input the impurities under the slag screen and liquid carbon dioxide into the carbon dioxide treatment tank 51; Step 8: The controller controls the stirring device 56 to start, so that the liquid carbon dioxide and impurities such as slag and seabed mud are mixed under the action of a solidifying agent and through a stirring process to generate a stable solid mixture, which is used to fill the erosion pit; Step 9: The controller controls the lifting pump 13 to start, so as to input the remaining pure minerals in the relay bin 20 into the ore storage tank 102 through the second conveying pipe 12 to empty the relay bin 20, and then repeat the above steps. This ensures the purity of the ore pumped by the booster pump 13, eliminating the need to separate the ore from the liquid carbon dioxide, reducing the hassle of subsequent processing, and also ensuring the reuse of the relay bin 20 without the need to periodically clean the bottom of the relay bin 20.

[0075] Optionally, the transmission device also includes a flexible connecting pipe, one end of which is detachably connected to a cryogenic carbon dioxide storage tank and the other end of which is detachably connected to a mining vehicle, for inputting liquid carbon dioxide into the mining vehicle.

[0076] This ensures the continuity and stability of the mining operation of the mining vehicle 31. Before the mining vehicle 31 goes to sea, a flexible connecting pipe can be connected from the ship to input liquid carbon dioxide into the mining vehicle 31 to replenish its carbon.

[0077] Combination Figure 2As shown, when the deep-sea mining and carbon dioxide sequestration integrated system is in operation only for carbon dioxide sequestration, step 1: the controller controls the output pump 14 to turn on, so that the cryogenic carbon dioxide storage tank 101 of the floating platform 10 delivers liquid carbon dioxide downwards, and the liquid carbon dioxide enters the relay chamber 20 for temporary storage; step 2: the controller controls the bidirectional centrifugal pump 42 to rotate in the forward direction, so that the liquid carbon dioxide reaches the carbon dioxide jet sequestration pipe along the flexible transmission pipe and is output to the bottom of the seabed mud layer.

[0078] Optionally, when the deep-sea mining and carbon dioxide sequestration integrated system is only performing carbon dioxide sequestration, the second delivery pipe 12 and the booster pump 13 can also be modified for carbon dioxide transmission to accelerate the transmission efficiency.

[0079] Optionally, the flexible transmission pipe 41 includes a first pipe section 411 and a second pipe section 412. The first pipe section 411 is connected to the relay warehouse, and the second pipe section 412 is connected to the mining vehicle. The first pipe section 411 and the second pipe section 412 are detachably connected.

[0080] In this way, compared to directly detachably connecting the flexible transmission pipe 41 to the mining vehicle, connecting the first pipe segment 411 and the second pipe segment 412 can effectively reduce the connection difficulty and improve the convenience of disassembling and installing the flexible transmission pipe 41.

[0081] Optionally, both the first pipe section 411 and the second pipe section 412 are flexible structures.

[0082] This allows for flexible adjustment of the positions of the first pipe section 411 and the second pipe section 412, making it more convenient to connect the first pipe section 411 and the second pipe section 412 underwater. It also reduces the precision requirements for the installation position and improves the ease of connection between the first pipe section 411 and the second pipe section 412.

[0083] Optionally, the flexible transmission tube 41 also includes a connector 413 and a carbon dioxide jet storage tube 414. The connector 413 is located at the end of the first tube segment 411 away from the relay compartment, and the carbon dioxide jet storage tube 414 is detachably connected to the connector 413.

[0084] In this way, when the carbon dioxide jet storage tube 414 is connected to the connector 413, the output efficiency of the flexible transmission tube 41 can be improved, leakage can be prevented, and the storage stability can be enhanced. By setting a detachable carbon dioxide jet storage tube 414, the carbon dioxide jet storage tube 414 can be flexibly disassembled and installed according to the needs of use. Specifically, when only carbon dioxide is stored, carbon dioxide is jetted and stored below the seabed mudline through the flexible transmission tube 41, the connector 413, and the carbon dioxide jet storage tube 414. When both carbon dioxide storage and deep-sea mining are carried out, or when only mining is carried out, the carbon dioxide jet storage tube 414 is disassembled, and the two sections of the flexible transmission tube 41 are connected by the connector 413 for the transmission of liquid carbon dioxide and ore.

[0085] Optionally, the inner wall of the second pipe section 412 is provided with an internal thread, and the outer wall of the connector 413 is provided with an external thread. The internal thread and the external thread are adapted to each other so that the second pipe section 412 and the connector 413 can be detachably connected.

[0086] In this way, the connection between the first pipe section 411 and the second pipe section 412 can be achieved by screwing the connector 413 to the second pipe section 412.

[0087] Optionally, the inner wall of the first pipe section 411 is provided with an internal thread, and the outer wall of the connector 413 is provided with an external thread. The internal thread and the external thread are adapted to each other so that the first pipe section 411 and the connector 413 can be detachably connected.

[0088] In this way, connector 413 can be removed from the first pipe section 411 and replaced.

[0089] Optionally, the flexible transmission tube 41 includes a delivery tube section, a connector 413, and a carbon dioxide jet storage tube 414. The connector 413 is located at the end of the delivery tube section, and the carbon dioxide jet storage tube 414 is detachably connected to the connector 413.

[0090] Optionally, the connector 413 is provided with a connection hole, the inner wall of the connection hole is provided with multiple threads, the multiple threads are located inside the connection hole, the inner diameter of the connection hole is adapted to the diameter of the carbon dioxide pipe, and the outer wall surface of the carbon dioxide jet sealing tube 414 is provided with multiple threads, so that the carbon dioxide jet sealing tube 414 can be disassembled or connected to the connector 413.

[0091] In this way, the connecting hole can play a pre-positioning role during installation, and then the connector 413 is connected to the carbon dioxide jet sealing tube 414 by thread, which can facilitate disassembly and assembly while ensuring structural stability during connection.

[0092] Optionally, the diameter of the carbon dioxide jet sealing tube 414 is smaller than the diameter of the first tube section 411.

[0093] In this way, the reduced diameter of the carbon dioxide jet storage pipe 414 increases the flow rate of liquid carbon dioxide, effectively overcoming the hydrostatic pressure at the seabed. Secondly, it increases the outlet kinetic energy of the liquid carbon dioxide, thereby increasing the carbon dioxide storage depth.

[0094] Specifically, the pipe diameter is designed to be 0.68 times that of the delivery pipe section.

[0095] Optionally, the flexible transmission tube 41 is coated with a silicon carbide wear-resistant coating.

[0096] This allows it to withstand repeated friction from seabed rock layers, extending the device's service life.

[0097] This can increase the output pressure of the carbon dioxide jet sealing tube 414 and ensure the sealing effect.

[0098] Optionally, both the connector 413 and the carbon dioxide jet sealing tube 414 are rigid structures.

[0099] This avoids damage or blockage of the carbon dioxide jet storage tube 414 due to collisions or other situations when it extends below the seabed mud layer, thus improving the reliability of the device.

[0100] Combination Figure 3 As shown, Figure 3 The lower arrow of the conveying device 40 indicates the direction of carbon dioxide transport, and the upper arrow indicates the direction of ore transport. When the integrated deep-sea mining and carbon dioxide storage system is operating only for deep-sea mining, the process is as follows: Step 1: The controller controls the output pump 14 to start, so that the cryogenic carbon dioxide storage tank 101 of the floating platform 10 transports liquid carbon dioxide downwards, and the liquid carbon dioxide enters the relay chamber 20 for temporary storage; Step 2: The controller controls the bidirectional centrifugal pump 42 to start, and the bidirectional centrifugal pump 42 rotates in the forward direction to input the carbon dioxide inside the relay chamber 20 into the mining car 31 for temporary storage; Step 3: The slurry collected by the mining car 31 is sorted by the screw conveyor 43, in which the porous guide vanes sort the ore and return the liquid carbon dioxide to the mining car for recycling, and the controller controls the bidirectional centrifugal pump 42 to rotate in the reverse direction, so that the initially purified slurry reaches the relay chamber along the flexible transmission pipe; Step 4: The controller controls the lifting pump 13 to start, and inputs the remaining pure minerals in the relay chamber 20 into the ore storage tank 102 through the second transmission pipe 12.

[0101] The foregoing description and accompanying drawings fully illustrate embodiments of the present disclosure to enable those skilled in the art to practice them. Other embodiments may include structural and other changes. The embodiments represent only possible variations. Individual components and functions are optional unless explicitly required, and the order of operation may vary. Parts and features of some embodiments may be included or substituted for parts and features of other embodiments. Embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited to the structures described above and shown in the accompanying drawings, and various modifications and changes may be made without departing from its scope. The scope of the present disclosure is limited only by the appended claims.

Claims

1. An integrated deep-sea mining and carbon dioxide sequestration system, characterized by, The system comprises: a floating platform (10) provided with a low-temperature carbon dioxide storage tank (101) and a mineral storage box (102); a relay warehouse (20) arranged below the floating platform (10) and used for storing substances; a first conveying pipe (11) having one end communicated with the low-temperature carbon dioxide storage tank (101) and the other end communicated with the relay warehouse (20), so that the carbon dioxide in the low-temperature carbon dioxide storage tank (101) can be sent into the relay warehouse (20) through the first conveying pipe (11) by an output pump (14); a second conveying pipe (12) having one end communicated with the mineral storage box and the other end communicated with the relay warehouse (20), so that the minerals in the relay warehouse (20) can be conveyed to the mineral storage box; a lifting pump (13) arranged in the second conveying pipe (12) and used for lifting the minerals; a mineral collecting device (30) used for collecting the minerals; a conveying device (40) having one end communicated with the relay warehouse (20) and the other end detachably connected with the mineral collecting device (30), the conveying device (40) being used for inputting the liquid carbon dioxide in the relay warehouse (20) into the mineral collecting device (30) and inputting the minerals into the relay warehouse (20) when the conveying device (40) is connected with the mineral collecting device (30), and the conveying device (40) being used for sealing the liquid carbon dioxide only when the conveying device (40) is disconnected with the mineral collecting device (30); a carbon dioxide sealing device (50) communicated with the relay warehouse (20) and used for solidifying the liquid carbon dioxide to seal the liquid carbon dioxide when the mineral collecting device (30) is connected with the conveying device (40); the conveying device (40) comprises: a flexible conveying pipe (41) having one end communicated with the middle part of the relay warehouse (20) and the other end detachably connected with the mineral collecting device (30); a bidirectional centrifugal pump (42) arranged in the flexible conveying pipe (41) and used for driving the liquid carbon dioxide in the relay warehouse (20) to flow out to be input into the seabed for sealing or to be used for jet flow mining or to input the ore pulp into the relay warehouse (20).

2. The deep-sea mining and carbon dioxide sealing integrated system according to claim 1, wherein the mineral collecting device (30) comprises a mining vehicle (31) provided with a carbon dioxide jet flow collecting head (32).

3. The integrated deep sea mining and carbon dioxide sequestration system of claim 2, wherein, The conveying device (40) further comprises: a screw conveyor (43) provided with porous guide vanes (431), the upper end of the screw conveyor (43) being connected with the other end of the flexible conveying pipe (41), and the lower end of the screw conveyor (43) being connected with the mining vehicle (31), so as to initially separate the liquid carbon dioxide and the minerals.

4. The integrated deep sea mining and carbon dioxide sequestration system of claim 1, wherein, The system further comprises: a screen (21) arranged at the bottom of the relay warehouse (20) and horizontally laid and used for filtering the ore pulp to separate the minerals from impurities.

5. The integrated deep sea mining and carbon dioxide sequestration system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, The carbon dioxide sealing device (50) comprises: a carbon dioxide treatment box (51); a solidifying agent storage box (52) arranged in the carbon dioxide treatment box (51) and provided with an opening and used for storing the solidifying agent, wherein the release of the solidifying agent is controllable; a carbon dioxide conveying pipe (53) having one end communicated with the relay warehouse (20) and the other end communicated with the carbon dioxide treatment box (51). A slag delivery pipe (54) is in communication with the bottom of the relay bin (20) at one end and with the carbon dioxide treatment tank (51) at the other end; An exhaust pipe (55) is in communication with the carbon dioxide treatment tank (51) at one end and extends to the outside at the other end, so that the product in the carbon dioxide treatment tank (51) is exhausted to the seabed.

6. The integrated deep sea mining and carbon dioxide sequestration system of claim 5, wherein, The carbon dioxide storage device (50) further comprises: A stirring device (56) is arranged in the carbon dioxide treatment tank (51) and is used to stir the carbon dioxide and the slag, seabed slurry and curing agent, and the liquid carbon dioxide and the slag, seabed slurry and curing agent after stirring to generate carbonate solidification, and is used to fill the erosion pit formed by deep sea mining to repair the seabed environment.

7. The integrated deep sea mining and carbon dioxide sequestration system of claim 6, wherein, The carbon dioxide storage device (50) further comprises: A first delivery pump (57) is arranged in the carbon dioxide treatment tank (51) and is in communication with the carbon dioxide delivery pipe (53) to control the on-off and flow rate of the carbon dioxide delivery pipe (53); A material pumping pump (58) is arranged in the carbon dioxide treatment tank (51) and is in communication with the slag delivery pipe (54) to control the on-off and flow rate of the slag delivery pipe (54).

8. The integrated deep sea mining and carbon dioxide sequestration system of claim 6, wherein, Further comprising: A filter device is arranged at the communication position of the carbon dioxide delivery pipe (53) and the relay bin (20) to filter the liquid flowing into the carbon dioxide delivery pipe (53).

Images