In a significant stride towards greener maritime operations, researchers have developed a novel method to evaluate the environmental impact of different fuels for wind-assisted cargo ships. The study, led by Mohammad Hossein Arabnejad from the Division of Marine Technology at Chalmers University of Technology in Gothenburg, Sweden, introduces a life cycle assessment (LCA) method that considers actual operation conditions and a validated ship performance prediction model.
The research, published in the journal ‘Energies’ (which translates to ‘Energies’ in English), focuses on wind-assisted ship propulsion (WASP) systems, which are gaining traction as an effective technique for reducing emissions from merchant ships. However, the optimal fuel type to complement WASP has remained uncertain until now.
Arabnejad and his team tackled this challenge by creating an in-house platform to predict ship performance under real-world conditions using hindcast data. This platform allowed them to size the engine and fuel tank while accounting for fluctuating weather conditions over a year. The study found that the required fuel tank capacity varied significantly across fuel types, with liquid hydrogen demanding the largest volume, followed by liquefied natural gas (LNG) and ammonia.
The LCA revealed that dual-fuel engines using green ammonia and hydrogen exhibited the lowest global warming potential (GWP). In contrast, grey ammonia and blue hydrogen had substantially higher GWP levels. Additionally, the study highlighted that dual-fuel and LNG scenarios consistently produced lower emissions of nitrogen oxides (NOx), sulfur oxides (SOx), and particulate matter compared to single-fuel marine diesel oil engines.
“This study underscores the importance of selecting both an appropriate fuel type and production method to optimize environmental performance,” Arabnejad stated. The findings advocate for a transition to greener fuel options derived from sustainable pathways for WASP ships, aiming to mitigate the environmental impact of maritime operations and support global climate change efforts.
For the maritime industry, these insights present both challenges and opportunities. Shipowners and operators must navigate the complexities of fuel selection, considering not only environmental impact but also factors such as fuel availability, infrastructure, and cost. However, the shift towards greener fuels also opens doors to innovation and collaboration, driving the development of new technologies and sustainable practices.
As the maritime sector continues to grapple with the pressing need to reduce emissions, studies like this one provide valuable guidance. By embracing these findings, stakeholders can make informed decisions that balance environmental responsibility with commercial viability, steering the industry towards a more sustainable future.