Project Description
Although alternative fuels offer substantial environmental benefits, their practical deployment introduces technical and operational challenges. Differences in energy density, fuel storage requirements, bunkering procedures, safety protocols, equipment modifications, and vessel range may significantly impact operational efficiency.
This project aims to compare conventional and low-carbon fuels from an engineering and operational perspective, examining whether alternative fuels can provide equivalent or acceptable performance for future vessel operations.
Scope of Work
- Compare fuel properties and energy densities.
- Assess storage volume and weight implications.
- Evaluate engine and fuel-cell technologies.
- Study impact on vessel endurance and operational flexibility.
- Analyze safety and risk considerations.
- Develop representative vessel case studies.
- Quantify operational performance trade-offs.
Methodology
- Literature review.
- Fuel performance modelling.
- Vessel energy simulations.
- Comparative lifecycle assessment.
- Sensitivity analysis.
- Technical-economic evaluation.
Expected Outcome
- Performance comparison framework.
- Quantitative assessment of fuel trade-offs.
- Identification of operational limitations.
- Recommendations for fuel selection by vessel type.
- Guidance for future vessel design decisions.
This project can be either 30 or 60 credits.