Page 104 - ΝΑΥΤΙΚΑ ΧΡΟΝΙΚΑ - ΜΑΙΟΣ 2023

GREEN SHIPPING

Mr Panos Zachariadis analyses the pros and cos of nuclear energy, hydrogen, ammonia,
methanol and biofuels.

ΕVEN IF GREEN

HYDROGEN WAS

AVAILABLE, WOULD

ANY BE LEFT FOR

SHIPS?

Regarding which alternative fuel they considered more likely to be widely
adopted by the shipping industry by 2050, the most popular answers in
descending order were biofuels, methanol, ammonia, hydrogen, and nuclear
energy. In your view, what are the advantages and disadvantages of the
above fuels?
Let us start from the least chosen to the most chosen.
Nuclear energy: Although it is not clear by the question which “nuclear
energy” it refers to (i.e., the current or the new 4th gener-
ation), the technical members are well aware of the new
emerging technology in this area. 4th generation nuclear
energy is practically 100% safe with small amounts of radio-
activity. It is now in the prototype manufacturing stage and
is expected to be available in a few years. The advantage of
nuclear energy is, of course, its capacity to produce huge
amounts of emission-free electricity, which in turn can be
used to produce green hydrogen from water electrolysis.
Furthermore, due to the high temperatures involved in 4th
generation nuclear power, thermochemical water splitting
can be used without the need for electrolysis. Lastly, 4th
generation closed mini reactors could be used on board
ships for propulsion and electricity generation. Their sim-
plicity, no requirements for cooling water, no need for
maintenance, and low risk may make them viable for such
purpose.
Hydrogen: Hydrogen is the mother of most other alternative fuels.
by Panos Zachariadis, Hydrogen is difficult to store and handle, requiring -260° C
Technical Director, to be liquefied, and is explosive. Even as a liquid, it requires
Atlantic Bulk Carriers Management Ltd.
10 times larger tanks for the same range as conventional

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