A Comparative Study on Alternative Marine Fuels: Economic, Technology, Environmental and Safety Issues
Typ
Examensarbete för masterexamen
Master's Thesis
Master's Thesis
Program
Maritime management (MPMAR), MSc
Supply chain management (MPSCM), MSc
Supply chain management (MPSCM), MSc
Publicerad
2024
Författare
Nasir, Hamza
Tian, Tian
Modellbyggare
Tidskriftstitel
ISSN
Volymtitel
Utgivare
Sammanfattning
Transitioning to sustainable energy sources in the maritime industry is imperative for mitigating
environmental impacts and achieving long-term sustainability goals. This master thesis explores the
feasibility and potential of hydrogen as an alternative marine fuel, comparing it with other options such as
liquefied natural gas, methanol, and ammonia. The study addresses several key questions: What are the
technological, economic, environmental, and safety implications of adopting hydrogen as a marine fuel? &
How does hydrogen compare to other alternative fuels in terms of these criteria? The authors employ a
multidimensional analysis approach, incorporating methodologies such as the Analytical Hierarchy Process
(AHP) and a Case Study of MV Venta Maersk to evaluate the performance of alternative fuels. The study
begins by examining the technological landscape through a literature review, highlighting the challenges and
opportunities associated with hydrogen production, storage, transportation, and utilization. It concludes that
Carbon Capture and Storage technology, critical for blue hydrogen production, faces challenges related to
stringent requirements and consistent natural gas supply. Conversely, green hydrogen production poses
formidable hurdles due to cost implications and necessitates advancements in electrolysis technology and
supportive governmental policies.
In assessing the environmental impact, this study emphasizes the significance of greenhouse gas emissions
and marine pollution. Hydrogen emerges as a promising option, offering zero emissions during combustion
and minimal environmental impact. However, the inherent characteristics of hydrogen pose technical and
safety challenges. While LNG also demonstrates commendable environmental performance, generating
minimal NOx and Particulate Matter emissions during use, it remains the top priority among alternative fuels
due to its early adoption and relatively mature infrastructure. The AHP results from surveys have revealed
a priority on safety and environmental concerns as critical criteria in the evaluation of alternative fuels.
Methanol and ammonia rank lower in the comprehensive assessment due to their inherent challenges and
safety considerations. Despite their potential, further research and development efforts are warranted to
address technical and safety challenges and harness their full potential as viable fuel options. The study
concludes by providing insights on limitations and suggests future research directions, emphasizing the need
for technological innovation, supply chain optimization, and policy interventions to facilitate the adoption
of alternative fuels.
Beskrivning
Ämne/nyckelord
Alternative marine fuels , Hydrogen supply chain , Analytic hierarchy process (AHP) , Shipping , Maritime