AMPP funds research on ammonia as marine fuel

The Association for Materials Protection and Performance (AMPP) has launched a $50,000 grant to assess existing knowledge and expertise surrounding the use of ammonia as a marine fuel.

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The eight-month research project will focus on identifying critical knowledge gaps and setting priorities for future research, standards development, technology deployment and technical guidance.

Although ammonia has been studied extensively for decades across industrial and chemical applications, significant uncertainties remain around its use in marine propulsion. Key areas of concern include materials performance, safety, standards and the long-term integrity of marine assets exposed to ammonia.

The selected research team will conduct a comprehensive review of published literature, industry standards, technical specifications, regulations and safety requirements related to ammonia as a marine fuel. The project will culminate in a publicly available report that consolidates existing knowledge, highlights unresolved gaps and identifies opportunities for further technical development.

AMPP is inviting proposals from qualified researchers, universities, research organisations and industry teams until 25 September.

Ammonia is gaining traction as the maritime industry searches for lower-carbon fuels to cut greenhouse gas emissions. According to DNV data, four ammonia-capable vessels are currently in operation worldwide, while another 42 are on order for delivery through 2030.

The development of ammonia-fuelling infrastructure is also gathering pace. Moroccan start-up ORNX Green Hydrogen plans to build a green ammonia plant in the Laâyoune region, while last month Navigator Amon Shipping secured a $121.8 million loan to finance two ammonia-capable gas carriers under construction in China.

By Tuhin Roy

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