Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) has just kicked off a year-long test of a game-changing catalyst system designed to tackle methane slip from LNG dual-fuelled engines. This isn’t just another incremental improvement; it’s a bold step towards making LNG-powered vessels significantly greener. The test unit is currently installed on the KEYS Azelea, a 3,532-cbm LNG bunker vessel owned by KEYS Bunkering Japan. This vessel, built in 2024, is equipped with three Daihatsu four-stroke six-cylinder 320-millimetre bore dual-fuel engines.
Methane slip, the unburned methane in LNG fuel that escapes through the engine and into the atmosphere, has been a thorn in the side of the maritime industry. It’s a potent greenhouse gas, roughly 30 times more harmful than CO2 over a 100-year period. This makes it a significant contributor to global warming, and regulators are taking notice. The European Union Emissions Trading Scheme and FuelEU Maritime already factor in methane emissions, and the International Maritime Organization is likely to follow suit.
MHI’s new oxidation catalyst aims to convert this escaped methane into CO2 and water through a reaction with oxygen. It’s a clever solution that addresses a pressing problem. “Initial land-based testing of the system has shown a methane slip reduction of 70%,” MHI reported. That’s a substantial reduction, but the real test will be how it performs in real-world conditions aboard the KEYS Azelea.
This development is part of a broader trend in the maritime industry, where technology firms are racing to find solutions to methane slip. The stakes are high, and the pressure is on to find effective, scalable solutions. MHI’s collaboration with engine manufacturer Daihatsu Infinearth is a testament to the industry’s commitment to tackling this issue head-on.
So, what does this mean for the future of the maritime industry? If MHI’s catalyst system proves successful, it could pave the way for widespread adoption of LNG as a marine fuel. It could also spur further innovation in catalyst technology, leading to even more efficient and effective solutions. But it’s not just about technology; this development also underscores the need for robust regulatory frameworks that incentivize and enforce the reduction of methane emissions.
The maritime industry is at a crossroads, and developments like MHI’s catalyst system could shape the path forward. It’s a reminder that innovation, collaboration, and regulation are all crucial in the fight against climate change. As the industry navigates these challenges, one thing is clear: the future of maritime is green, and those who adapt will thrive. So, let’s keep an eye on the KEYS Azelea and the progress of MHI’s catalyst system. The results of this year-long test could send ripples through the industry, sparking a new wave of innovation and debate.