The Global Centre for Maritime Decarbonisation (GCMD) has published the results of Project LOTUS, a six-month study with NYK Line examining the operational effects of continuous biodiesel use onboard a pure car and truck carrier.
Closing the Knowledge Gap
The trial, launched in May 2024, focused on a B24 blend—24% fatty acid methyl ester (FAME) mixed with very low sulphur fuel oil (VLSFO). Until now, there has been limited long-term data on how such blends affect engines, fuel systems, and onboard storage. Project LOTUS addressed this by monitoring fuel and lubricant quality at key points while inspecting engine and fuel system components throughout the trial.
The work comes at a time when the International Maritime Organization (IMO) has endorsed its net-zero framework, pushing biofuels into sharper focus as a practical short-term decarbonisation measure. By increasing the share of biofuels, shipowners can meet Greenhouse Gas Fuel Intensity targets or generate compliance credits for future trading.
Operational Results
The main engine ran for 2,888 hours and the generator for 1,813 hours on B24, showing performance consistent with operations on VLSFO. Inspections revealed no excessive sludge in injection valves, no scratches in fuel pump plungers, and no unusual wear on liners or pistons. Engine oil and scavenge drain analyses confirmed no abnormal wear elements.
Fuel quality also remained stable. Although the acid value of stored B24 rose 2.5 times over six months, it still met ISO 8217 specifications. No microbial growth was found in the fuel. Based on these findings, original equipment manufacturers confirmed engine compatibility with long-term B24 use, provided maintenance and handling protocols are followed.
Practical Use Onboard
Beyond the trial, GCMD interviewed vessel operators already using biodiesel. While classification societies and OEMs have issued cautious guidelines, operators reported adapting existing VLSFO procedures with minor adjustments for biodiesel. This pragmatic approach suggests that biodiesel can be managed effectively within current operational frameworks when proper precautions are taken.
A Monitoring Framework for Industry
One outcome of Project LOTUS is a structured monitoring framework to help operators systematically track equipment performance when using biodiesel. A customised data log template, developed during the trial, has now been made publicly available for wider adoption and adaptation across vessel types.
Professor Lynn Loo, CEO of GCMD, said the project “grounds the conversation around the extended use of biofuels in evidence,” adding that the findings show they can be used safely as part of shipping’s decarbonisation pathway. Nobuhiro Kashima, Senior Managing Executive Officer of NYK Line, noted that biofuels remain a key option for sustainable maritime development and expressed hope the outcomes will encourage wider adoption.
