Unveiling the wild thriving realms beneath the ocean waves confers an unmatched thrill. However, the unstoppable vanguard of carbon emissions, powered by conventional marine fuels, casts a dark cloud over these serene water bodies. The silver lining? Methanol. Today, this vital liquid chemical has emerged as a strong contender in the race towards marine decarbonization, prompting us to lend it a closer look.
The Methanol Revolution
Methanol, a key ingredient in several everyday items—ranging from cosmetics and paints to plastics and fuels—is the lifeblood of countless industries. This chemical is birthed from synthesis gas, a blend of hydrogen, carbon monoxide, and carbon dioxide.
Lauded as an ultra-low carbon chemical, renewable methanol can be produced from sustainable biomass, aptly named bio-methanol, or from a mixture of carbon dioxide and renewable electricity-generated hydrogen. The ingredients for this chemical cocktail are widely accessible, with the carbon molecules required for synthesis gas obtainable from carbon dioxide in industrial exhaust streams, or even directly from air.
Aside from these sources, biogas can serve as a feedstock for methanol production, harvested from the fermentation of contents from wastewater treatment, landfills, and plants or animal waste. Moreover, renewable energy can be harnessed to power the electrolysis rounds, fostering the creation of clean hydrogen for renewable methanol production.
The Appeal of Methanol for Shipping
Methanol, crowned as the world’s most frequently shipped chemical commodity, is produced in excess of 95 billion liters annually. Its properties of remaining liquid at regular temperature and pressure simplify its deployment as a fuel, with minor adaptations needed for its use in combustion engines, fuel cells, and power blocks.
The true allure of methanol for shipping lies in its potential to reduce greenhouse emissions significantly. With up to a whopping 95% reduction in carbon dioxide and an 80% decrease in nitrogen oxide, not to mention the complete eradication of sulfur oxide and particulate matter emissions, renewable methanol presents itself as a compelling solution.
Considerations in Implementing Methanol as Marine Fuel
Venturing into this new fuel frontier requires due diligence. Methanol, while exhibiting commendable burn characteristics, demands a pilot fuel for ignition, potentially a gas oil or a biofuel. With a mere Flash Point of 12°C, safety at sea will be a key concern. Furthermore, methanol, known for its reactivity, demands inert materials, like stainless steel for contact, and a splash of pure water before burning to meet the Tier III NOx requirements.
Although possessing only about 40%-50% of the energy content of traditional maritime fossil fuels, methanol’s prospects are far from being stifled.
Initial Trials with Methanol Fuel
As part of their collaboration with Maersk, VPS embarked on the first methanol bunker quantity survey in July 2023. This preliminary stage was riddled with pre-delivery challenges such as tank-cleaning and sample transportation that adhered to International Air Transport Association rules for dangerous goods.
VPS’ intensive investments in state-of-the-art laboratory equipment and extensive R&D bear fruit with its comprehensive, reliable testing and advisory services for methanol as a maritime fuel. Notably, the testing for samples from Laura Maersk’s recent bunkering adhered to the International Methanol Producers and Consumers Association test slate.
A Bright Horizon for Methanol
With over 160 methanol-powered ships currently under construction, a surge in methanol usage within the maritime sector is forthcoming. VPS has proven itself a capable helmsman, guiding shipowners and operators in the transition towards using methanol as their preferred low-carbon marine fuel. Its prowess in this arena signals a promising future for this sector’s decarbonisation journey.
