SodaFlexx intalls scrubber on Bontrup’s bulk carrier

UK-based SodaFlexx has installed a baking soda-based scrubber system on a bulk carrier in Amsterdam.

PHOTO: SodaFlexx’s scrubber system fitted onboard the Bontrup Amsterdam. SodaFlexx

The 65,000-dwt bulk carrier Bontrup Amsterdam was fitted a scrubber that injects sodium bicarbonate, commonly known as baking soda, directly into the exhaust gas stream. Because of heat and turbulence in the ship’s exhaust system, the sodium bicarbonate reacts to sulphur compounds to convert it to sodium sulphate, a pH-neutral salt.

The installation was completed in less than three days and took place in the last week of February. Dutch shipping company Bontrup, which owns and operates the bulk carrier, was part of the installation process, along with the UK-based building material firm Aggregate Industries.

Several shipowners have equipped their vessels with scrubber systems to be able to run on cheaper HSFO while complying with the International Maritime Organisation’s (IMO) global 0.50% sulphur limit.

Bulk carrier owners like Bontrup have opted for more scrubbers than owners of other vessel types. Out of a total 5,061 scrubber-fitted vessels in operation or on order until 2025, 1,749 bulk carriers have been fitted with scrubbers, according to DNV data. Container ships follow second on the list with 1,184.

Singapore's Hi5 spread in Singapore is currently around $140/mt. That is down from $250/mt last month and a massive drop from peak levels above $500/mt in June last year.

By Tuhin Roy

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