Liam Blackmore gives an introduction and overview of Ammonia as a fuel for shipping including technical challenges, safety elements and sustainability in this video.
Liam Blackmore is a principal engineer at Lloyd’s Register and has a strong and diverse background in the maritime industry, with over 12 years of experience in the maritime industry. With in-depth experience in marine engineering and surveying, Liam is responsible for supporting the strategic direction, policy, and governance of engineering within LR. His particular focus is on low-to-zero carbon fuels, such as ammonia, methanol and hydrogen. He works in collaboration with industry and academic partners to drive development of new and sustainable technologies for the maritime sector.
Back to: Ammonia hub
Ammonia as a fuel for shipping - Frequently asked Questions
Ammonia is flammable, can be explosive, but it has a low reactivity. It is highly toxic and can present material compatibility issues. We have addressed these within our rules and regulations for the consumption of ammonia as fuel.
Burning toxic fuel on ships risks exposing humans and marine life to the toxin. The
exposure depends on both concentration (parts per million) and duration.
Regulations such as dosage limits from governments and agencies aim to manage this risk. For ship crews, both the level and length of exposure matter to assess any consequences and understanding these factors is crucial for safety in the marine industry.
Currently, there are no certified ammonia-fueled engines for ships. While manufacturers like MAN, WIN GD, and Wartsila are simulating, testing single cylinders, and building facilities for full-scale engine validation, crucial data on environmental impact (N2O and ammonia slippage) and operational safety (toxicity during maintenance and inspection) remain missing. We actively collaborate with these manufacturers to unlock the potential of ammonia while ensuring thorough environmental and safety evaluations before approving any engines for marine use.