Powerfuels and Alternative Fuels in the Maritime Sector

Kurzfassung

The maritime sector accounts for about 3% of global GHG emissions and largely depends on fossil fuels like heavy fuel oil (HFO), marine diesel oil (MDO), and marine gas oil (MGO). These fuels contribute to significant emissions of greenhouse gases (CO2, CH4) and pollutants such as particulate matter (PM), sulfur oxides (SO2), and nitrogen oxides (NOx). To address these emissions, various regulations have been implemented by nations, regional bodies like the EU, and internationally by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), which sets global standards for safety, security, and environmental performance. While MARPOL Annex VI has regulated NOx, SO2, and energy efficiency since 2005, reducing GHG emissions has gained more focus recently. Adopting alternative fuels is considered the most viable strategy for reducing vessel GHG emissions. Various alternative fuels, each with unique benefits, challenges, and infrastructure requirements, are explored in this article, including liquefied natural gas (LNG), liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), methanol, ammonia, hydrogen, and bio-based or electricity-based diesel fuels. Their properties and technical applications, such as fuel storage and propulsion system compatibility, are discussed, along with regulatory and suitability considerations for reducing GHG emissions in the maritime industry.