Project Summary

This technology is a compact, modular emission control system designed to capture NO?, N?O, CO?, and ammonia slip from ammonia-fuelled ships (with pilot fuel) using a single, integrated unit. The project addresses critical gaps in after treatment technology for emerging maritime fuels. By enhancing environmental compliance and fuel efficiency, a scalable, future-proof solution for decarbonising global shipping is offered.

Project Achievements

The project successfully demonstrated the technical and operational feasibility of a compact, modular emissions-management approach designed for ammonia-fuelled short-sea vessels. Through emissions profiling and system modelling, the project defined realistic capture targets for key pollutants. Vessel-level integration studies confirmed that the system could be accommodated on vessels without compromising stability, safety, or space constraints. The work also delivered tailored system design concepts, a preliminary regulatory pathway, and a techno-economic assessment highlighting potential compliance and operational benefits. Together, these outputs strengthen the technical foundation for future prototype development and demonstration, while supporting the responsible adoption of alternative fuels such as ammonia in the maritime sector.

Conclusions

This project demonstrated the feasibility of a compact emissions-management approach tailored for ammonia-fuelled vessels. The work provided a clearer understanding of the emissions challenges associated with ammonia combustion and confirmed that an integrated solution targeting multiple pollutants could be technically and operationally viable within the constraints of vessels. System modelling, vessel integration analysis, and commercial assessment together established a credible pathway toward further development and demonstration. The findings also highlighted the importance of addressing emissions such as nitrous oxide and ammonia slip to ensure that alternative fuels deliver genuine environmental benefits. Overall, the project strengthens the case for practical emissions-management technologies that support the safe and responsible adoption of low-carbon fuels in shipping. The outcomes provide a solid foundation for the next stage of prototype testing, industry collaboration, and eventual deployment within the maritime sector.

Next Steps

The next stage of the project will focus on progressing from modelling and feasibility assessment to experimental validation. Planned activities include laboratory-scale testing of the emissions-management concept under representative ammonia–pilot fuel exhaust conditions to validate capture performance and system behaviour. Prototype development and controlled testing will help confirm durability, operational stability, and integration with engine systems. Further engagement with academic research facilities, maritime industry partners, and classification societies will support testing, safety assessment, and regulatory pathway development. These collaborations will also help refine system design for real-world deployment. Subject to further funding, the project aims to progress toward pilot-scale demonstrations on a marine engine testbed or a suitable vessel environment. These steps will support advancement along the technology readiness pathway and help prepare the solution for future commercialisation within the maritime sector.