Lloyd’s Register (LR) has awarded approval in principle (AiP) to Samsung Heavy Industries (SHI) and Amogy for an 88,000 cbm fuel cell-powered ammonia carrier, which uses ammonia cracking to create hydrogen for the fuel cell stored onboard.
The new design will use Amogy’s technology, which is able to ‘crack’ ammonia at lower temperatures with a compact module, resulting in the new concept design of ammonia carrier applying the fuel cell system, to respond the decarbonization needs. The ammonia-to-power system was given LR technology verification earlier this year, which confirmed its suitability to operate in defined maritime environments.
The AiP follows the start of a joint development project for the fuel cell power ammonia carrier, which was initiated in March 2024, with LR’s role to provide a review of the ship design concept and the applied fuel cell system along with a risk assessment of RBC-1 (Risk Based Certification).
Sung-Gu Park, President – North East Asia, Lloyd’s Register said: “This project is a sign with its aims to address the rising market demand for emission reduction solutions in both terrestrial and maritime sectors. Collaborating with SHI and Amogy positions LR at the forefront of this emerging technology, while also providing LR's clients with access to cutting-edge advancements in ship design and propulsion systems.
“By addressing the pressing need for sustainable fuel solutions in the maritime industry, this JDP will contribute to wider efforts aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the maritime industry.”
Hae Ki Jang , CTO & EVP SHI said: “Ammonia is a carbon-free fuel for a future eco-friendly society. Through this JDP, SHI has implemented an eco-friendly pure net zero vessel by combining future technologies such as fuel cell and ammonia cracker technology collaborating with LR and Amogy.
SHI will continue to develop technologies toward the era of full de-carbonisation and bring future products to the market that can significantly enhance the quality of crew life and take one step closer to developing autonomous vessel with the fuel cell and electrification technology as a market leading company.”
Seonghoon Woo, CEO, Amogy said: “We are thrilled to receive Approval in Principle from Lloyd’s Register for this groundbreaking project with Samsung Heavy Industries. Powered by Amogy’s innovative technology, this ammonia carrier promises to redefine industry standards, driving forward sustainable fuel solutions for the maritime sector. We look forward to continued collaboration with LR and SHI as we extend the project into further phases of engineering and development.”