Summary Report: Corrosion Challenges in CCUS Applications

Date: 24th April 2026 (Corrosion Awareness Day)
Venue: Sir William Henry Bragg Building, University of Leeds Theme: NetCorr – Corrosion Challenges in CCUS Applications

Introduction

The ICorr Corrosion Engineering Division (CED) Conference 2026, titled NetCorr – Corrosion Challenges in CCUS Applications, was held at the Sir William Henry Bragg Building at the University of Leeds on Corrosion Awareness Day 2026. The event brought together professionals from industry, academia, regulatory bodies, and research organisations to discuss one of the most pressing technical challenges associated with the energy transition: corrosion management within Carbon Capture, Utilisation and Storage (CCUS) infrastructure.

The conference focused on the integrity, reliability, and long-term operational challenges associated with dense-phase CO2 systems, impurity management, corrosion testing methodologies, materials selection, and the practical realities of deploying CCUS at industrial scale.

The event was organised by the Institute of Corrosion (ICorr) Corrosion Engineering Division in partnership with the Royal Academy of Engineering and the University of Leeds.

Conference Overview

The conference attracted 54 registered professionals from across the corrosion, energy, integrity management, and materials engineering sectors. The programme included:

• 7 technical presentations
• 1 industry panel discussion
• 3 laboratory and facility tours
• Representatives from industry, academia, research institutions, and regulatory bodies
• Attendance from ICorr leadership, including the ICorr President, Vice President, and Past President

The event theme, “Corrosion Challenges in CCUS Applications”, highlighted the critical role corrosion science and engineering will play in enabling safe and sustainable Net Zero infrastructure.

Photo 2: Danny Burkle (ICorr CED Chair, Cortest)Introducing This Year’s Theme.

Sponsors and Supporters

The conference was supported by the following organisations:

• Cortest
• Intertek CAPCIS
• Industrial Coatings Inspectors Global Ltd
• Corrocoat
• OGC Energy
• University of Leeds

Additional support and partnership were provided by:

• Institute of Corrosion (ICorr)
• Royal Academy of Engineering

The conference organisers acknowledged the importance of sponsor support in enabling technical collaboration, knowledge sharing, and professional networking within the corrosion engineering community.

Photo 3: ICorr CED Conference 2026 Sponsors.

Opening Remarks

The conference opened with a welcome from Danny Burkle (ICorr CED Chair, Cortest), followed by remarks from ICorr President Yunnan Gao.

Danny framed the day’s theme by emphasising that CCUS corrosion is not simply a materials problem – it is a chemistry, flow, and systems problem. He highlighted real-world failures including the 2020 Denbury Gulf Coast pipeline rupture and delays to the Gorgon CCS project caused by corrosion risk.

A key message throughout the opening session was that corrosion engineering is central to the successful deployment of CCUS, hydrogen, offshore renewables, and geothermal technologies. The audience was reminded that while corrosion failures within CCUS infrastructure may currently appear infrequent, the consequences can be significant, including pipeline failures, loss of containment incidents, and project delays.

Speakers emphasised that corrosion is not simply a materials challenge, but also a societal and infrastructure challenge linked directly to safety, environmental protection, and the wider energy transition.

The conference also recognised Corrosion Awareness Day 2026, reinforcing the importance of raising awareness of corrosion prevention and the value corrosion professionals bring to society and industry.

Photo 4: A welcome from our ICorr President, Yunnan Gao.

Technical Programme Summary

Photo 5: ICorr CED Conference 2026 Speakers.

CCUS – The Big Picture Problem

Danny Burkle (Cortest) opened the technical programme with an overview of the wider corrosion challenges associated with CCUS deployment. The presentation explored the scale of infrastructure required for Net Zero ambitions and highlighted the operational risks associated with transporting and storing dense phase CO2.

Real-world examples of failures, pipeline ruptures, and containment incidents were discussed to demonstrate that corrosion risk in CCUS systems is already becoming an operational reality. The presentation also emphasised the importance of understanding when and where corrosion mechanisms become critical, rather than simply whether corrosion can occur.

Key challenges identified:

• Impurity chemistry: Parts-per-million levels of SOx, NOx, O2, and H2S can form strong acids.
• Phase behaviour: Stratified flow creates localised attack at low points.
• Non-linear corrosion: Small condition changes can trigger large jumps in corrosion rates.
• Testing gaps: No standardised methodology; results vary by an order of magnitude between labs.

Managing Corrosion Risk in CCS Infrastructure

Chris Scales (HSE Energy Division) discussed the importance of integrity management, regulation, and risk assessment within future CCS infrastructure.

The presentation highlighted the challenges associated with scaling up CCUS infrastructure while maintaining safe operation and regulatory compliance. The role of industry standards, inspection methodologies, and operational monitoring was discussed alongside the need for practical approaches to corrosion management within emerging CCS projects.

Chris outlined the new regulatory framework under the Carbon Capture, Utilisation, Storage and Offshore Hydrogen Production Regulations 2026, effective 6 April 2026. CCS projects now require formal safety cases demonstrating risks are managed to levels “as low as reasonably practicable” (ALARP).

He emphasised:

• CO2 is heavier than air – releases offshore will slump rather than disperse.
• Joule-Thomson cooling during depressurisation creates structural risks.
• Corrosion management is a critical element in safety case acceptance.
• Operators must engage early with regulators during design phases.

Are Current CO2 Specifications Realistic?

Steve Paterson (Arbeadie Consultants) delivered a presentation focused on CO2 specifications and impurity management within CCS projects.

A major topic of discussion throughout the conference was the balance between operational practicality, economic viability, and corrosion risk reduction. The presentation explored whether current impurity specifications are achievable for emitters and whether overly restrictive specifications could negatively impact project viability.

Discussions during both the presentation and panel session highlighted:

• The importance of understanding impurity interactions.
• No universal agreement exists on safe impurity limits.
• The challenge of controlling oxygen and acidic species.
• The need for alignment between emitters, transport operators, and storage operators.
• Lessons being learned from global CCS projects such as Northern Lights and ADM.
• Concerns around the gap between design assumptions and operational reality.
• Round-robin testing across laboratories is needed to validate results.

The audience discussion demonstrated strong industry interest in how specifications will evolve as projects move from design into long-term operation.

CO2 Capture and Conditioning

George Winning (Wood PLC) explored impurity reactions, CO2 conditioning, and the importance of understanding changing CO2 streams from different emitters.

The presentation discussed:

• Different capture technologies (amine absorption, physical solvents, membranes, cryogenic) produce different impurity profiles.
• Pre-treatment and post-treatment add costs that must be balanced against specifications.
• Chemical treatments such as scavenging and inhibition show promise for upset conditions.
• Online monitoring at ppm levels presents practical challenges. • Challenges associated with developing standardised specifications.

Reference was made to Joint Industry Projects (JIPs) focused on impurity specifications and corrosion risk management.

A recurring theme was that future CCS networks will require collaboration between emitters, transport operators, regulators, and researchers to ensure specifications remain technically achievable while maintaining infrastructure integrity.

Corrosion Testing Challenges in CCUS

Richard Barker (University of Leeds) from the University of Leeds discussed corrosion mechanisms and testing challenges associated with CO2 -rich environments.

The presentation focused on:
• Electrochemical behaviour in CO2 systems.
• Localised corrosion risks.
• Scale formation and breakdown.
• The complexity of reproducing realistic service environments within laboratory testing.
• The need for representative testing methodologies for CCS applications.

Richard described the challenges of laboratory testing in supercritical CO2:

• Impurity depletion in closed systems produces misleading integrated measurements.
• Water splashing during pressurisation and condensation during depressurisation create artefacts.
• Absorption/desorption on infrastructure creates lag times.

The session reinforced the importance of high-quality experimental work in understanding corrosion mechanisms and supporting future material selection and design decisions. Leeds is developing continuous-injection infrastructure to support improvement in testing methodologies in this area.

Autoclave vs Full Ring Pipe Testing

Paul Wood (Intertek Capcis) compared autoclave testing with full ring pipe testing methodologies. Paul presented comparative testing, examining pipe-section versus autoclave tests for shut-in pipeline conditions. Autoclave tests produced corrosion rates ten times higher than pipe-section tests due to different solution volume-to-surface-area ratios. The waterline region showed the highest attack rates (0.96 mm/year), while submerged regions showed minimal corrosion.

The presentation explored the advantages and limitations of different testing approaches, particularly in relation to:

• Simulating realistic operating conditions.
• Reproducing flow and stress conditions.
• Scaling laboratory results to field performance.
• Understanding material performance under dense phase CO2 conditions.

The discussion highlighted the importance of selecting appropriate test methodologies depending on the specific corrosion mechanism and operational scenario being assessed.

Standardised Test Methodology for Dense Phase CO2

Shravan Kairy (NPL) from the National Physical Laboratory
(NPL) presented work focused on standardised corrosion testing methodologies for dense phase CO2 systems.

Shravan addressed the need for standardised test methodology. Literature data shows order-of-magnitude variation in reported corrosion rates for identical conditions, largely due to procedural differences. He emphasised the need for consistency and repeatability across corrosion testing programmes to improve data quality, comparability, and industry confidence.

NPL’s validated methodology includes:

• Gradual pressurisation (40 minutes) with stirring for rapid impurity
• System dilution before depressurisation to avoid water condensation
• No corrosion detected when water remains below solubility
• NPL aims to publish a Good Practice Guide by 2027 and draft international standards by

The session highlighted the growing importance of collaborative testing frameworks as CCS infrastructure expands globally.

Facility Tours

Following the morning technical sessions, attendees participated in laboratory and facility tours hosted by the University of Leeds.

The tours were split into four groups and included three parallel activities:

1. Bragg analytical facilities tour
2. Virtual corrosion laboratory tour – Overview of corrosion research programmes.
3. Chemistry corrosion laboratory tour focused on CCUS research featuring the new continuous-injection reactor infrastructure under development.

The tours provided attendees with direct insight into ongoing corrosion and materials research activities being carried out within the university. Delegates were able to view analytical equipment, discuss experimental methodologies, and gain a better understanding of the practical research supporting future CCUS deployment.

The facility tours were particularly well received as they allowed attendees to connect the technical presentations with real-world experimental work and infrastructure.

The Bragg Centre highlighted access schemes through the Henry Royce Institute, including SME access and the Royce Industrial Collaboration Programme.

Panel Discussion Highlights

The conference concluded with an open panel discussion involving Steve Paterson, George Winning, and Richard Barker. The discussion encouraged audience participation and focused on several key themes:

• The realism and practicality of current CO₂ impurity
• The gap between design assumptions and operational
• Monitoring and controlling impurities during
• Lessons from existing global CCS
• Material selection
• The balance between risk reduction and economic
• The need for industry collaboration and knowledge

The panel format created valuable interaction between industry, academia, and delegates, with open discussion around both technical and commercial challenges facing the CCUS sector.

Networking and Exhibiting

Throughout the day, delegates had multiple opportunities to network with fellow corrosion professionals, researchers, equipment suppliers, and industry representatives during registration, refreshments, lunch, and between technical sessions

The conference environment encouraged open discussion and collaboration across industry, academia, and regulatory organisations. Sponsors and supporting organisations also showcased their capabilities and services, allowing attendees to discuss current projects, technical challenges, testing approaches, and future collaboration opportunities linked to CCUS and corrosion management.

Tribute and Reflection

During the conference, attendees also took part in a moment of reflection following the recent passing of Charles Watkinson, CEO of Corrocoat.

A tribute recognised his more than 50 years of contribution to corrosion engineering, coatings technology, and the wider corrosion industry.

Colleagues reflected on his leadership, innovation, and commitment to advancing corrosion protection technologies globally. The tribute served as a reminder of the long-standing expertise and dedication within the corrosion engineering community.

Conclusion

The ICorr CED Conference 2026 successfully brought together leading experts from across the corrosion and CCUS sectors to discuss the technical, operational, and strategic challenges associated with corrosion management in dense phase CO₂ infrastructure.A consistent theme throughout the day was the importance of collaboration between industry, academia, regulators, and research organisations. Speakers highlighted that achieving safe and reliable CCUS deployment will require not only advances in materials and testing, but also practical alignment between specifications, operations, monitoring, and long-term integrity management.The event provided attendees with valuable technical insight, networking opportunities, and direct engagement with current research and industrial practice. Through both the technical presentations and facility tours, the conference reinforced the critical role corrosion science and engineering will play in supporting the global energy transition and future Net Zero infrastructure.

Key Takeaways

1. Specifications are not Systems must be designed assuming off-spec conditions will occur.
2. Water location matters more than concentration. Acid formation occurs at phase boundaries, cold spots, and low points – not
3. Testing standardisation is urgent. Without reproducible methods, material selection decisions cannot be made with
4. Regulation is now formal. UK CCS projects require accepted safety cases; corrosion management is central to these.
5. Collaboration is essential. No single organisation has all the answers; shared data and aligned methodologies are needed.

Key Conference Statistics

• 54 registered professionals
• 7 technical talks
• 6 sponsors and supporters
• 3 facility tours
• 1 open panel discussion
• Hosted at the University of Leeds on Corrosion Awareness Day 2026

Acknowledgements

The event was organised by Dr Danny Burkle (CED Chair) CEDchair@ icorr.org with support from Joshua Owen and the Bragg Centre team at the University of Leeds. Special thanks to Stephanie Foster for venue coordination and to all sponsors whose support made the event possible. Next Major Event: EUROCORR Dublin 2026, Convention Centre Dublin, 6–10 September 2026. See: Registration – Eurocorr 2026 to register advance interest. CED will also present at the ICorr National AGM to be held at the National Physical Laboratory (NPL) in London on Wednesday 18th November 2026, which will feature the Paul McIntyre award ceremony which recognises a senior corrosion engineer who has not only made significant technical contributions, but has also championed European collaboration and international standards – reflecting the values and legacy of the late Professor Paul McIntyre.

Report prepared by Danny Burkle. Photograph captured by Chijioke Godwins.

CED DIVISION: Danny Burkle (Chair), Email: cedchair@icorr.org

Discover how ICorr’s bursary partnership with the University of Manchester is making a positive impact on students’ higher education journeys, providing financial support, encouraging academic excellence, and offering a valuable stepping stone towards a rewarding career in corrosion engineering.

Read Jana Al Shami’s story to learn how the bursary is supporting aspiring corrosion professionals and helping to build the future of the industry.

 How the ICorr Scholarship Programme Supported My Higher Education Journey

 As a Materials Science and Engineering student with a strong interest in sustainability, I have always been motivated by the challenge of developing solutions that will help reduce environmental impact. Throughout my studies, I have become increasingly interested in the role that materials performance and corrosion management play in creating safer, more sustainable  nfrastructure and energy systems.

 My involvement with the Institute of Corrosion (ICorr) has been an important part of that journey. Through ICorr, I have gained a greater understanding of the real-world effect of corrosion across a wide range of industries and have had the opportunity to engage with professionals who are helping to address some of the sector’s most important challenges. Learning from experts in the field has inspired my interest in corrosion and safety engineering, which has given me valuable insight into potential career pathways.

Receiving an ICorr Scholarship has been both an honour and a significant source of support. Like many students, I balance my studies with part-time work to help cover living expenses. The financial support provided by the scholarship has reduced that pressure considerably, allowing me to dedicate more time and energy to my academic work and professional development.

In addition to the financial benefits, the scholarship has given me confidence in my abilities and pushed me to achieve my aspirations. Being recognised by a respected professional body such as ICorr has reinforced my commitment to pursuing a career within the corrosion sector. Also, it has motivated me to continue reaching for high academic performance and to take full advantage of opportunities to develop my knowledge and industry connections.

 Looking ahead, I hope to build a career in corrosion and safety engineering, with a focus on environmentally sustainable projects and clean energy technologies. Corrosion prevention and materials integrity are essential to the safe and efficient operation of many low-carbon energy systems, and I am excited by the prospect of contributing to solutions that will help create a more sustainable future.

 I am incredibly grateful to ICorr for investing in students through its Scholarship Programme. The support I have received has had a meaningful impact on my higher education journey, helping me focus on my studies while building a strong foundation for my future career.

I would encourage other students with an interest in engineering, materials, or corrosion to explore the opportunities that ICorr offers. The experience along with the professional connections can make a real difference, both during your studies and beyond.

 Jana Al Shami – ICorr Scholarship Recipient

If you’re considering studying corrosion at the University of Manchester, you may be eligible to apply for an ICorr–University of Manchester bursary. Prospective students are invited to complete the application questionnaire as part of the scholarship process.

 Ali Oskuie, Asset Integrity Engineer, PhD, MSc

Congratulations to our new Midlands Branch Chair Dr. Ali Oskuie on stepping into this leadership role with a clear vision for the future of our corrosion community. In this article, we take a closer look at Ali’s journey with ICorr and his vision for the Midlands Branch.

1. About yourself, your ICorr involvement, and your journey

My name is Ali Oskuie, and I am a corrosion engineering professional currently working at Worley UK. I specialise in risk-based inspection (RBI) and asset integrity management (AIM), and have been involved in managing several large-scale projects in these areas.

I hold a PhD in corrosion engineering and have over 13 years of experience in the field. I began my career in Iran, where I completed my doctoral studies and spent seven years working in industry before relocating to the UK in 2022 to join Cranfield University as a Knowledge Transfer Associate.

Although I was aware of ICorr prior to moving to the UK, my relocation provided the opportunity to engage more closely with the institute. I became a member and, through my professional network, connected with Dr Prafull Sharma, who was the Midlands Branch Chair at the time.

During this period, I was nominated as Branch Secretary. This role gave me valuable first-hand experience of ICorr activities and the branch’s role in promoting and disseminating corrosion knowledge.

Following Dr Sharma’s departure earlier this year, I was honoured that the committee approved my nomination to take on the role of Midlands Branch Chair.

2. What are your priorities as you begin your tenure?

My primary priority is to strengthen collaboration across industry, academia, and students within the Midlands region. I aim to build a strong network and database of professionals and organisations to help bridge these communities more effectively.

A key focus will be increasing industry engagement. Industrial partners play an important role in expanding corrosion knowledge through sponsorship and collaboration, while also benefiting from visibility and access to emerging talent.

Another priority is the organisation of regular technical webinars on topical issues. Hosting monthly sessions will provide continuous learning opportunities, attract a wider audience, and support growth in both membership and engagement.

In addition, I intend to strengthen links with universities in the region by engaging lecturers and researchers and encouraging their participation in our events.

3. What expansion opportunities do you see for the branch over the next year?

Over the next year, I see strong opportunities to expand both our industry partnerships and our digital presence.

Increasing the number of industry sponsors will be an important objective.

At the same time, we will focus on strengthening our visibility through social media and digital platforms to reach a wider audience, particularly students and early-career engineers.

4. What do you see as the major branch events of the 2026–2027 session?

One of our key ambitions for 2027 is to organise a one- to two-day conference in collaboration with a university or industry partner.

Alongside this, we plan to continue our programme of monthly webinars covering topical technical subjects such as pipeline corrosion, hydrogen-related corrosion challenges, renewable energy, and professional development topics such as project management.

5. Is there anything else you’d like to share with our members?

I strongly believe that our members are at the heart of everything we do—they are not just members, but colleagues and a professional community.

I encourage all members to engage with the branch by sharing ideas and feedback through our communication channels. We are committed to listening and continuously improving our services.

Please contact me at: midlandschair@icorr.org

ICorr President Visits the University of Manchester to Inspire the Next Generation of Corrosion Professionals

Dr Yunnan Gao, President of the Institute of Corrosion (ICorr), visited the University of Manchester on 26 June 2026 to engage with engineering students and introduce the opportunities available through ICorr membership, professional development, and involvement in the global corrosion community.

Following the successful collaboration between ICorr and the University of Manchester, Dr Gao was invited to deliver a presentation entitled:

“Meet the ICorr President – How the Institute of Corrosion Can Help UoM Students Develop Their Careers”

The event was hosted at the Engineering Building, University of Manchester, and was attended by students with an interest in corrosion, materials engineering, and related disciplines. The session provided an opportunity for students to learn more about the role of ICorr, its activities, and how involvement with the professional body can support their academic journey and future careers.

The visit followed Dr Gao’s earlier engagement with the University of Manchester, where he met with ICorr Scholarship recipient students and discussed the importance of supporting young engineers entering the corrosion profession. The combined activities reflect ICorr’s ongoing commitment to encouraging student participation, developing future corrosion specialists, and strengthening links between academia and industry.

During the presentation, Dr Gao introduced ICorr’s mission and role in advancing corrosion prevention, management, and engineering excellence. Key topics covered included:

• The role of ICorr in supporting the corrosion profession in the UK and internationally
• The benefits and opportunities available through free ICorr student membership
• Career development pathways, Continuing Professional Development (CPD), and routes towards professional registration
• Young engineer initiatives, mentoring opportunities, and professional networking
• ICorr’s engagement with international corrosion organisations and global activities, including collaboration with partners in China
• The importance of building professional networks and engaging with the wider corrosion community at an early stage of career development

The presentation was followed by an interactive discussion with students, allowing attendees to explore career opportunities in corrosion engineering, current industry trends, and the skills required to develop successful careers in this important field.

Dr Gao said:

“It was a great pleasure to return to the University of Manchester and meet with students who are interested in corrosion and materials engineering. Developing the next generation of corrosion professionals is a key priority for ICorr. Through student membership, professional networking, mentoring, and engagement with the wider corrosion community, we hope to provide students with the support and opportunities they need to build successful careers.”

The session received very positive feedback, with strong student engagement and interest in becoming involved with ICorr. Students were encouraged to take advantage of ICorr’s free student membership scheme, which provides access to professional networks, technical knowledge, events, and opportunities to connect with corrosion professionals across industry and academia.

The University of Manchester has a long-standing reputation for excellence in engineering, materials science, and corrosion research. Through continued collaboration with universities such as Manchester, ICorr aims to strengthen the connection between education, research, and industrial practice, ensuring that future engineers are equipped with the knowledge and professional networks needed to address corrosion challenges worldwide.

ICorr would like to thank Dr Beatriz Mingo, Professor Dirk Engelberg, and colleagues at the University of Manchester for their support in organising the event and for their continued engagement in promoting corrosion awareness and professional development among students.

Photo: Dr Yunnan Gao, President of the Institute of Corrosion (ICorr), with University of Manchester students following his presentation “Meet the ICorr President – How the Institute of Corrosion Can Help UoM Students Develop Their Careers” on 26 June 2026.

The Institute of Corrosion (ICorr) is delighted to announce the successful completion of its first direct assessment for Chartered Engineer (CEng) registration, marking an important milestone in the Institute’s professional registration programme.

We are proud to congratulate Huwaynaa Al-Yahyai, Integrity Team Lead, BP, on achieving CEng status. This achievement recognises her professional expertise, commitment to excellence, and contribution to the engineering profession.

As one of the first applicants to undertake the ICorr direct assessment route, Huwaynaa’s achievement demonstrates both the high standards of the CEng registration process and ICorr’s growing role in supporting professional development and recognition within the corrosion industry.

Reflecting on her experience of the application and assessment journey, Huwaynaa shared:

“Becoming a Chartered Engineer (CEng) through the Institute of Corrosion (ICorr) is more than a credential. It reflects years of disciplined technical growth and hands-on experience in corrosion and integrity management and represents a commitment to delivering sound engineering judgement against internationally recognised standards in high-risk environments.

For me, it is a defining career milestone. It strengthens my credibility and positions me as a leader accountable for the outcomes of my engineering decisions, leading critical integrity decisions, influencing strategy, and being trusted with greater responsibility.

Earning it, though, is just the beginning. It comes with an ongoing commitment to developing as an engineer, leading with integrity, and playing an active part in raising the standard of the profession, whether through mentoring, sharing experiences and best practices, or challenging the way we work and grow as a discipline.”

Once again, our warmest congratulations to Huwaynaa!

As a Licensed Member of the Engineering Council, ICorr can now assess and register eligible members directly for professional registration, including:

• Chartered Engineer (CEng)
• Incorporated Engineer (IEng)
• Engineering Technician (EngTech)

If you are already a Professional Member of ICorr and believe you meet the requirements of UK-SPEC, now is the perfect time to explore professional registration. Contact admin@icorr.org or ecreg@icorr.org for more information.