Maersk tests a 50/50 ethanol-methanol blend on the 2,100-TEU Laura Maersk, aiming for a future 100% ethanol trial to enhance sustainability.
Maersk has commenced testing a 50/50 ethanol-methanol blend on its dual-fuel vessel, the 2,100-TEU Laura Maersk, as reported by Saint Petersburg's PortNews.
This trial follows a previous test conducted from October to November, which utilized a 10% ethanol and 90% e-methanol mix. That test confirmed that ethanol can be safely integrated into dual-fuel methanol engines without compromising performance.
The Laura Maersk, recognized as the world's first dual-fuel containership operating on methanol, was originally designed for methanol use. Maersk indicated that the similar chemical properties of ethanol allow for higher blends, with plans for a future trial using 100% ethanol.
Emma Mazhari, Head of Energy Markets at Maersk, emphasized the importance of multiple fuel pathways in achieving climate goals. She noted that increasing the ethanol content provides valuable insights into engine performance and sourcing potential. The ethanol used in this trial is anhydrous, with the United States and Brazil accounting for 80% of the global supply.
Currently, Maersk utilizes bio- and e-methanol as well as biodiesel, and it anticipates adding liquefied biomethane and LNG from 2027 with the introduction of new dual-fuel LNG vessels. In 2021, the company decided to order only dual-fuel capable ships and expects to have 19 such vessels by 2025.
Maersk A/S, headquartered in Denmark, operates globally in ocean shipping, port services, and supply-chain logistics, managing a substantial international fleet.
