Ammonia, particularly its green and blue variants, is gaining attention as a potential alternative to conventional fossil fuels for reducing shipping emissions. South Korea’s HD Hyundai Heavy Industries has made strides in this area by developing a high-pressure ammonia dual-fuel engine, which has received approval from six classification societies. Other companies are following suit, with Wärtsilä launching its ammonia dual-fuel engine and WinGD and MAN Energy Solutions expected to debut theirs by next year, reports Engine Online.
According to DNV data, at least 25 ammonia-capable ships could be operational by 2027. Incentivising regulations are hoped to be in place by then, and the supply chain appears to be aligning, with companies like Woodside Energy preparing to supply grey and blue ammonia from its newly acquired plant in Texas.
Safety Concerns Surrounding Ammonia as a Fuel
Despite these advancements, significant concerns remain about the safety of using ammonia on ships. Its toxicity is a major issue, as even minor leaks can pose serious health risks. A retired merchant navy captain expressed concerns, stating that ammonia could be fatal if inhaled. Maritime consultants echoed these concerns, noting the dangers of handling such a hazardous substance aboard a ship.
Chemical engineer Paul Martin highlighted that ammonia forms ammonium hydroxide when it comes into contact with water, which can cause severe tissue damage. This raises concerns about the potential risks to marine life and human health. Martin questioned the feasibility of containing leaks in the confined spaces of a ship, especially during long ocean voyages.
Challenges in Real-World Application
While manufacturers of engines and fuel systems claim to have developed technologies to prevent ammonia leaks and reduce emissions, experts like Madadh Maclaine, secretary general of the Zero Emissions Ship Technology Association (ZESTAs), warn that lab-tested solutions may not hold up in the harsh conditions of ocean voyages. She stresses that real-world testing is necessary to ensure the safe use of ammonia on ships.
The Global Centre for Maritime Decarbonisation (GCMD) is working on a pilot project to demonstrate how ammonia can be safely burned on ships. However, until safety concerns are addressed and practical solutions implemented, the use of ammonia as a marine fuel remains uncertain.
Other Maritime Sustainability Developments
Meanwhile, in Japan, Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL) is exploring the feasibility of transporting liquefied CO2 for storage in marine saline aquifers. The project aims to capture CO2 emissions from refineries and power plants, with a storage capacity of 1.7 million mt/year.
Additionally, Klaveness Combination Carriers raised concerns over the lack of consensus on mid-term measures to reduce shipping’s greenhouse gas emissions, warning that more work is needed to finalise regulations guiding the industry towards net-zero by 2050.
Dutch terminal operator APM Terminals also announced plans to install a shore power facility at its Maasvlakte II terminal in the Port of Rotterdam. The facility is expected to be operational by 2028, providing a sustainable power source for sea-going vessels.
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Source: engine.online
