CONCAWE has issued new guidelines for assessing the suitability of new materials for marine fuel production and blending, as the industry looks to adopt lower-carbon fuel options.
The methodology provides a two-level assessment process to determine whether a new material is safe, compatible and effective for use on ships.
The guideline covers conventional and non-conventional materials, including off-specification FAME, as well as materials derived from vegetable oils, biomass waste, used oils, recycled components, forestry residues and other lignocellulosic materials.
Under a Level 1 assessment, the producer or supplier evaluates whether a new material can be considered an acceptable fuel or blend component and marketed without further evaluation.
A Level 2 assessment is recommended where the initial assessment does not provide sufficient confidence. This can involve analytical testing, engine bench testing and, where necessary, sea trials to confirm acceptable performance.
CONCAWE said the process requires detailed testing and documentation, along with collaboration between producers, users and other stakeholders.
The guideline does not cover the sustainability aspects of marine fuels using new materials and is based on best practices rather than being a fuel specification.
