Decarbonizing the Maritime Industry

The shipping industry faces a monumental challenge in decarbonizing its operations, especially as it grapples with the need for sustainable marine fuels. A significant shift is expected in the sector, with low-carbon alternative fuels such as ammonia, methanol, and hydrogen projected to account for 33.2% of global bunker fuel consumption by 2050—compared to just 0.6% in 2023, according to analysts from S&P Global Commodity Insights. LNG is forecasted to cover an additional 15.6%, while traditional bunker fuels like fuel oils and gasoils will still hold over 46.5% of the market. The increasing adoption of hydrogen, particularly in coastal and short-sea shipping, marks a pivotal development. However, larger vessels, such as ocean-going boxships, face unique challenges that could hinder the broad adoption of hydrogen due to operational and cargo-carrying constraints.

The Hydrogen Journey in Maritime Shipping

The maritime industry is steadily advancing towards decarbonization, with hydrogen emerging as a promising alternative fuel. However, widespread adoption hinges on the acceleration of regulatory frameworks, safety protocols, and infrastructure development. These are essential steps for enabling the safe and efficient use of hydrogen in shipping. Hydrogen fuel cells, which convert hydrogen and oxygen into electricity and heat with only water as a byproduct, are gaining traction due to their superior efficiency compared to traditional combustion engines and gas turbines. Furthermore, their simple construction with few moving parts makes them reliable and quiet, ensuring minimal vibration on board and reducing noise pollution in marine ecosystems.

Fuel cells have proven their worth in various maritime applications. Multi-megawatt (MW) fuel cells are already employed in stationary applications in ports, and for over 30 years, they have powered seagoing vessels, including passenger ships and submarines. Near-shore and short-sea vessels, which can recharge more frequently, are prime candidates for combining fuel cells with battery storage to achieve zero-emission operations. This combination of battery technology, marine fuel cells, and green fuels represents a critical pathway in the energy transition to lower emissions in maritime shipping. The integration of these technologies allows vessels to operate for extended periods without the need for refueling or recharging.

Fuel Cells and Hydrogen Safety

Fuel cells, arranged in series as fuel cell stacks, can be tailored to meet various voltage and power requirements across different maritime applications. Hydrogen’s potential as a green fuel is closely tied to its production, which necessitates strict safety measures. Hydrogen’s unique physical properties—rapid diffusion and high buoyancy—confer safety advantages when properly managed. However, its explosive characteristics, compared to gases like LPG and natural gas, demand that production and refueling systems be designed with meticulous attention to detail.

To optimize the performance of electrolyzers and fuel cells, accurate monitoring of gas compositions is crucial. In-situ gas analyzers, such as Modcon’s MOD-1040 Oxygen Analyzer and MOD-1060 Hydrogen Analyzer, provide precise and real-time monitoring solutions that enhance process safety and efficiency. The MOD-1040 Oxygen Analyzer, utilizing advanced optical sensor technology, excels in managing the high moisture and potential potassium hydroxide (KOH) content found in hydrogen production systems. The MOD-1060 Hydrogen Analyzer, based on thermal conductivity, accurately measures hydrogen and oxygen concentrations, delivering fast response times and high precision. Both analyzers significantly reduce interference from other gases, ensuring reliable and continuous gas monitoring.

Modcon’s advanced analyzers are complemented by a state-of-the-art sample manifold system, which allows for seamless integration of the MOD-1040 and MOD-1060 analyzers, along with pressure and temperature sensors, into the process stream. This manifold design enables calibration of the analyzers without the need for disassembly, thereby reducing maintenance requirements and ensuring uninterrupted monitoring.

The benefits of in-situ gas analysis in hydrogen production and marine fuel cell applications are substantial:

• Wide Measurement Range: The analyzers are capable of measuring across a broad spectrum of gas concentrations.
• Fast Response Time: Real-time monitoring enables immediate detection of process deviations, enhancing safety.
• High Accuracy and Precision: Reliable measurements ensure safety and product quality, critical in maritime operations.
• Low Maintenance: The advanced design, coupled with Modcon’s manifold system, reduces the frequency of calibration and component replacements, minimizing operational downtime.
• Versatility: These analyzers are suitable for various industries, including energy production and industrial processing.
• Enhanced Safety: Supported by ATEX/IECEX/SIL2 approvals, the analyzers reduce the risk of fires and explosions in hazardous environments.
• Operational Efficiency: Improved process control leads to enhanced product purity, consistency, and overall system efficiency.
• Cost Savings: The analyzers simplify system design and reduce the need for extensive hazardous area classification, offering significant cost reductions.

Conclusion

As the maritime industry moves toward decarbonization, hydrogen and fuel cell technologies, combined with innovative in-situ gas analysis systems, play a pivotal role in reducing emissions. By leveraging the benefits of hydrogen fuel cells and real-time gas monitoring, shipping companies can achieve cleaner, more efficient operations while ensuring safety and regulatory compliance. Modcon’s advanced analyzers, such as the MOD-1040 and MOD-1060, stand at the forefront of this energy transition, helping to chart a course towards a more sustainable and low-emission future for global maritime shipping.