NYK has announced the beginning of a one-year long-term trial that will see the continuous use of 100% biofuel (B100) on one of its own car carriers.
The initiative aims to evaluate the fuel’s effects on the vessel’s equipment, as well as verify operational safety under real-world conditions.
Through the trial, NYK will seek to both accumulate technical expertise to support the broader use of high-purity biofuels and further accelerate efforts to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.
NYK has been implementing biofuels gradually through a number of initiatives, including trial efforts in 2024 to use blend B24, as well as the subsequent expansion of practical usage to B30.
This trial will see NYK operate a car carrier on B100 for one year in order to evaluate the impact on engines, fuel supply systems, and operational practices.
High-purity biofuels such as B100 are, according to NYK, known to be susceptible to degradation from oxygen, light, and heat, raising concerns about the stability of such fuels during long-term use.
By conducting the trial, the operator intends to collect long-term operational data, accumulating technical inisghts to support both the safe operation of vessels and the wider adoption of high-purity biofuels.
Building on the findings from this trial, NYK has stated it will continue technical evaluations and promote initiatives aimed at realising sustainable maritime transportation.
