NIPPON Yusen Kaisha (NYK Line) has announced it will launch a product that reduces the oxidation degradation of marine biodiesel (biofuel) by around 50%.
Nippon Yuka Kogya, an NYK Group company specializing in chemical R&D, announced the upcoming release of BioxiGuard, Japan’s first antioxidant specially developed for biofuel, which will be available from August 10 this year.
NYK said BioxiGuard is specifically formulated to enhance the oxidation stability of biodiesel, and when added to biofuel, slows the progression of oxidative degradation and helps deter issues such as metal corrosion, strainer blockage, and cleaning-system fouling often triggered by oxidised fuel.
According to laboratory tests conducted by Nippon Yuka researchers, the addition of BioxiGuard at a concentration of 1 part per 500 resulted in an approximate 50% reduction in the rate of biofuel degradation compared to untreated biofuel.
“This significant improvement underscores the potential for vessel operators to not only extend the useful life of biofuel on board but also maintain more stable and cost-effective vessel operations,” NYK said in the announcement.
Biofuel is garnering increased attention in the maritime sector due to its production from a diverse range of raw materials, including grains and used cooking oil, supporting the transition towards lower-carbon and decarbonised vessel operations.
However, compared with conventional petroleum-based fuels, biofuel contains a higher proportion of unsaturated fatty acids, making it more susceptible to oxidative degradation.
Once oxidised, the biofuel can produce acidic substances and sludge, adversely affecting vessel fuel efficiency by reducing the fuel’s calorific value.
The news comes shortly after NYK announced the delivery of the group’s first methanol-fueled bulk carrier.
Green Future was delivered on 13 May, and is chartered by NYK Bulk & Projects Carriers from Kambara Kisen.
The 199.99 m LOA vessel’s dual-fuel engine uses methanol and fuel oil, and was delivered at the Tsuneishi factory of Tsuneishi Shipbuilding.