Amid growing global demand for decarbonization, the shipping industry has been actively introducing alternative fuels that contribute to reducing GHG emissions. Biofuels are regarded as a promising “drop-in fuel” option because they can be used with existing ship engines and infrastructure.
NYK has been advancing the use of biofuels through various initiatives. In 2024, the company conducted a trial using biofuel blend B24** and subsequently expanded practical usage to B30.** However, there remains limited global experience with the long-term continuous use of B100.
In this trial, NYK will operate a car carrier continuously on B100 for one year to evaluate the impact on engines, fuel supply systems, and operational practices. High-purity biofuels such as B100 are known to be susceptible to degradation from oxygen, light, and heat, raising concerns about the stability of such fuels during long-term use.
By collecting long-term operational data through this trial, NYK aims to accumulate valuable technical insights to support both the safe operation of vessels and the wider adoption of high-purity biofuels.
Biofuels offer opportunities to reduce GHG emissions across the entire lifecycle (well-to-wake) compared with conventional fossil fuels. Building on the findings from this trial, NYK will continue technical evaluations and promote initiatives aimed at realizing sustainable maritime transportation.
* B100
Fuel consisting of 100% biofuel. In this trial, the biofuel primarily comprises FAME (Fatty Acid Methyl Ester) derived from used cooking oil and similar feedstocks.
** B24 / B30
Blended fuels consisting of approximately 24% and 30% biofuel (FAME), respectively, mixed with conventional fuel oil.
