Maersk to trial 50/50 ethanol-methanol blend

COPENHAGEN : Maersk has announced that building on a successful initial trial, the company will now blend 50% ethanol with 50% methanol in a test onboard the vessel Laura Mærsk. Maersk continues to explore options to diversify its low-emission fuel portfolio by testing ethanol in a dual-fuel methanol engine. The first trial, conducted in October and November, involved a 10% ethanol / 90% e-methanol blend and confirmed that ethanol can be safely and effectively integrated into the fuel mix.

The test underscores the potential to create greater optionality for Maersk’s dual-fuel methanol fleet, essentially enabling dual fuel alcohol vessels.

At Maersk, we believe multiple fuel pathways are essential for the shipping industry to meet its climate ambitions. That means consciously exploring different options and technologies. 

…commented Emma Mazhari, Head of Energy Markets, Maersk. 

The initial trial tested whether an E10 blend would ignite and burn as efficiently as pure methanol while maintaining comparable lubricity and corrosiveness. The results confirm that ethanol can be blended with methanol without compromising engine performance, paving the way for higher ethanol blends.

Beyond the upcoming E50 test, Maersk plans to conduct a trial using 100% ethanol.

Ethanol has a proven track record with an established market and existing infrastructure and offers an additional pathway for decarbonisation. By gradually increasing ethanol content, we gain valuable insights into engine performance and combustion impacts, informing fuel sourcing potential.