In a pivotal step towards greener maritime operations, recent research spearheaded by Erik Scherpenhuijsen Rom and Austin Kana from the Department of Maritime and Transport Technology at Delft University of Technology has investigated iron powder as a sustainable fuel alternative for semi-submersible crane vessels (SSCVs). The paper presents a comprehensive feasibility study that utilizes a design model to integrate data and simulate the vessel’s operation, determining the potential for a hybrid iron powder energy system within the maritime industry.
The study follows an exploration of suitable vessel types for the adoption of an iron powder powertrain, culminating in the semi-submersible crane vessel as the optimal candidate due to its loading profiles and structural capabilities. To mitigate the significant increases in weight due to the use of iron powder, the proposal suggests a combination of hybrid setups that would not only fulfill the power requirements but also considerably reduce emissions.
Iron powder shows promise as a dense energy carrier and stands out for its abundant availability, recyclability, and remarkably low emissions when combusted, presenting an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional fossil fuels. Compared to other metals considered for electrofuels, iron offers both cost-effectiveness and practicality due to its greater natural abundance.
The implementation of this innovative fuel source promises significant benefits; CO2 emissions could be reduced by 25-50%, and NOx emissions by 15-50%, depending on the vessel’s mission profile. Furthermore, this approach only requires a one-time supply of iron powder as it can be infinitely recycled, making it a potentially cyclical energy source.
The study also notes that while technical feasibility is primarily established, economic factors remain to be thoroughly investigated, including the costs of setup compared to conventional energy sources, and yearly bunker costs. Looking ahead, establishing economic viability, alongside further refinement of the technical assessments, would significantly enhance the potential of iron powder-powered vessels.
This cutting-edge research provides a crucial blueprint for transforming the shipping industry, steering it towards a more sustainable and eco-friendly direction. As the maritime sector continues to seek renewable energy solutions, the Ducchants—Delft University of —study underscores the importance of continuous innovation and the potential of utilizing abundant and recyclable resources like iron powder for a cleaner future.
You can download the full study here: https://proceedings.open.tudelft.nl/imdc24/article/view/870
