Following the earlier announcement about a joint LCO2 carrier project, Korean Register (KR) and Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering (DSME) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to jointly collaborate in developing new propulsion systems capable of handling green fuels including ammonia and hydrogen.
While the global maritime industry is introducing operational measures such as limiting engine output and installing energy-saving devices to meet stringent greenhouse gas regulations, in the longer term green fuels will be needed to achieve substantial emission reductions. There is a high level of market interest in propulsion systems and materials for operating with green fuels such as ammonia, hydrogen and methanol.
Ammonia and hydrogen are widely recognised as green alternatives, but are considered to have more sensitive characteristics than commonly used LNG fuels. To be used as a marine fuel, extra technical requirements need to be addressed. These include the toxicity of ammonia, hydrogen embrittlement, cryogenic conditions equivalent to -253 ° C, diffusion characteristics, as well as ensuring the same level of safety as existing ships.
This joint research agreement between the two parties will build on the strengths and accumulated technology of each company. DSME aims to commercialise ammonia-powered container ships by 2025 based on its technology, and is at an advanced stage in developing eco-friendly fuel technologies, including low-carbon ammonia carriers and liquefied CO2 carriers. KR has been actively seeking better options for decarbonisation pathways. As well as publishing guidelines for ammonia-fuelled ships, the classification society is developing its own hydrogen-powered ship rules and is working on enhanced decarbonisation initiatives to ensure ship safety and a greener future.
Dong-kyu Choi, Head of DSME R&D Institute, said: “The added value of eco-friendly ship propulsion technologies is expected to increase further in the future amid the strengthening of environmental regulations. Besides this collaboration with KR, we will continue to develop advanced eco-friendly ship propulsion technology and strive to speed up the commercialization of decarbonised ships.”
Dae-heon Kim, EVPof KR R&D division, said: “The joint agreement with DSME is significant in preparing for the future of green fuels in the long term. We will do our best to support the technology needed to deliver a low emissions shipping industry.”
