#Sweden #Stockholm #ammonia cracking #Pherousa #Metacon

Metacon and Pherousa Make Headway in Clean Maritime Tech

In a groundbreaking development within the maritime industry, Metacon AB, through its Norwegian subsidiary Pherousa AS, has secured initial Approvals in Principle (AiP) from two prominent maritime classification societies, American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) and DNV. This significant recognition pertains to their state-of-the-art Ammonia Cracking technology, which is set to revolutionize clean propulsion solutions for ships.

The approvals come after an independent evaluation process and are notable for lacking any conditions that might hinder the technology’s implementation. This validation underlines the safety and operational viability of employing Pherousa’s ammonia cracking technology onboard vessels. The technology promises to facilitate fully electric propulsion systems, especially in integration with PEM fuel cells and fuel gas supply systems (FGSS).

The maritime sector has increasingly recognized the need for sustainable technologies to mitigate its environmental impact. As the global shipping industry seeks to comply with stringent emissions regulations, the introduction of ammonia as a clean fuel alternative emerges as a timely solution. Ammonia, being non-explosive, presents a safe method to carry hydrogen energy, which, when harnessed through advanced technologies, can lead to carbon-free shipping operations.

“This moment marks a significant leap in the transition to fossil-free maritime transport. With ammonia representing a non-carbon fuel option, we are poised to lead the future of sustainable shipping,” commented Hans Bredrup, Chairman of Pherousa AS.

The journey towards securing these approvals saw the collaboration of multiple partners, including ship designers like Deltamarin and the flag state of the Marshall Islands, among others. Together, they are developing a zero-emission series of 64,000 dwt bulk carriers aimed primarily at the copper transport sector. This initiative responds directly to the increasing demand for emission-free logistics solutions, particularly for materials such as copper that are critical in the production of solar panels and electric vehicles.

Pherousa Shipping has worked closely with leading copper miners during the ship design phase, optimizing the vessel layout for emission-free transport. The goal is to have these vessels operational by the time new International Maritime Organization (IMO) regulations take effect in 2030, thus enabling companies to ensure an emissions-free supply chain for critical materials.

Metacon’s proprietary ammonia cracking technology, known as HIWAR®, is central to this initiative. It is designed to efficiently convert ammonia into high-quality hydrogen fuel, which can be utilized in various applications, such as powering PEM fuel cells, and internal combustion engines run on hydrogen. As a result, this technology holds the potential to offer completely emission-free propulsion across a diverse array of vessels.

“I am thrilled to witness the rapid advancements in our collaborative project at Pherousa,” stated Christer Wikner, President and CEO of Metacon. “Ammonia is steadily emerging as the only viable CO2-free fuel source for deep-sea shipping, providing flexibility for both fuel cell and combustion engine technologies.”

The momentum established with this AiP signifies a landmark achievement towards making ammonia-based maritime transport a reality, as further developments continue to evolve. Stakeholders across the maritime industry are encouraged to monitor these proceedings, as they may substantially alter the landscape of global shipping operations.

For further inquiries or detailed information regarding this technological advancement, individuals can reach out to Christer Wikner directly at +46 707-647389, or via email at [email protected]

With a partnership structure now firmly in place and clear pathways towards commercialization, the future appears promising for a greener maritime sector. Through their innovative efforts, Metacon and Pherousa are setting a new standard for sustainable energy solutions in shipping.

For more information, please visit Metacon's official website or Pherousa's platform here.