A MARITIME Technologies Forum report shows a possible pathway towards the safe use of ammonia as a maritime fuel.
The report, Preliminary discussion report on the use of ammonia as fuel for ships, details various ideas and diverse comments on the use of the substance as fuel. The report concluded that MTF members share a common understanding on several topics, but further investigation and discussion is necessary in those areas where there is a difference of opinion.
Specifically, the identification of the key safety concerns tied to ammonia may become a significant input to the industry for further relevant investigations and discussions.
The report’s launch marks the MTF’s second publication to investigate how the maritime industry can achieve the IMO’s carbon reduction targets.
Ammonia is a potential energy source that does not emit carbon particles upon combustion. However, the technology is not yet mature, infrastructure for production and delivery is lacking, work to address its toxicity is ongoing, and currently there is no concrete regulatory framework that will allow the use of ammonia as fuel for ships at sea.
Further long-term research is critical to acquire a sufficient understanding of the potential environmental impacts of such an endeavour.
The report’s main objective was to trigger discussion among MTF members. Several questions converged on the potential regulation of ammonia, the basic properties of the fuel and appropriate safety measures.
The members’ views on these topics have been consolidated in the report with the conclusion that further long-term research is needed to understand the environmental impact of introducing ammonia into the fuel mix.
A spokesperson for the MTF said one of the greatest challenges facing the maritime industry and the world is decarbonisation.
“To get more clarity on the road ahead, the industry must address and discuss the challenges together to ensure safety remains at the heart of any new fuel developments,” the spokesperson said.
“We hope the observations and findings from this project will contribute to future discussions on alternative fuels and help further promote decarbonization efforts within our industry.”
The MTF is a forum of flag states and classification societies. It aims to provide technical and regulatory expertise to benefit the maritime industry by producing and publishing research.
