Idemitsu Kosan completes B24 blend trial on bunker tanker

Japanese petroleum company Idemitsu Kosan has concluded a long-term continuous operation test of a bunker tanker using B24 biofuel blend.

PHOTO: Getty images

The B24 blend comprised 24% FAME (Fatty Acid Methyl Ester)-based biofuel derived from used cooking oil and 76% conventional marine fuels, according to Idemitsu Kosan.

The trial took place on Eiyu Chemical's bunker tanker, Kamui Maru, for about 10 months starting from September 2023. It confirmed that the vessel operated smoothly in Hokkaido's cold climate, with no need to modify equipment or operating conditions compared to conventional fuel.

The goal of this test was to assess the long-term effects of using biofuel blend on a larger vessel (497 gross tonnage) over a long period. The test confirmed that there was no impact on oxidation stability, and the vessel operated just as it would with conventional fuel. Oxidation stability of marine fuel refers to its ability to resist chemical degradation when exposed to oxygen, which helps prevent the formation of sludge and deposits in engines over time.

Afterward, an inspection of the main engine and other components found no issues with the bio-blended fuel, marking significant progress towards its practical use in marine operations.

The trial was conducted in partnership with Shiraoi Oil, Narasaki Oil, and Hanshin Diesel Works.

Based on the insights from this trial, the companies plan to extend the practical use of biofuel blends beyond Hokkaido.

By Tuhin Roy

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