Russian scientists have obtained biofuel components for ships
Gubkin University has begun developing import-independent technologies for "green" marine fuel.
Scientists from Gubkin Russian State University of Oil and Gas (National Research University) have obtained the first samples of biocomponents for marine fuel – fatty acid methyl esters (FAME). Their use is a promising way to reduce the carbon footprint of shipping. This approach will reduce greenhouse gas emissions in shipping by up to 75% compared to traditional fuels and meet projected international decarbonization requirements.
The project aims to create an import-independent production of "green" fuel for cargo and passenger ships. A mixture of the obtained biocomponents with traditional RME 180 marine fuel has already been tested for compliance with the international quality standard ISO 8217-2024.
According to Mikhail Ershov, the project's scientific director and professor at Gubkin University, establishing a technological foundation for producing low-carbon marine fuel in Russia will yield a significant economic advantage in the next five years.
The timing of the introduction of marine biofuels depends on the development of international regulatory requirements.
"The maritime industry is guided by aviation's experience and is following its regulatory path, so it is currently lagging behind in the development of industry standards and regulations. However, I believe that by 2030, minimum obligations will be in place," Ershov assessed the situation.
Currently, shipping accounts for approximately 12% of all transport sector emissions worldwide. Experts estimate that biofuels' share of global consumption of traditional and alternative energy sources for shipping could reach 4% by 2030.
As part of the project, scientists developed a technology for processing raw materials through esterification and transesterification, which allows for a high yield of the target product. The research was conducted at the specialized competence center for approval and testing of petroleum products at Gubkin University.
