In Virginia, Maersk and the U.S. Navy are testing algae-based biofuel on the container ship Maersk Kalmar currently en route from Germany to India. The 300 meter-long container ship has a dedicated auxiliary test engine, which reduces the risks of testing, and its fuels system includes biofuel blending equipment and separate tanks. The biofuels test is the first collaboration between Maersk and the U.S. Navy’s Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA).
During its month-long, 6,500 nautical mile voyage from Bremerhaven, Germany to Pipavav, India, the ship will use 30 tons of biofuel. Engineers and crew onboard are testing blends ranging from 7% to 100% biofuel.
The team is also analyzing emissions data on NOx (nitrogen oxides), SOx (sulphur oxides), CO2 and particulate matter from the fuel use, along with effects on power efficiency and engine wear and tear. Tests are scheduled to conclude in December with an analysis of results following soon thereafter.
Original post available here.
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