Nanyang Technological University (NTU) and Sembcorp Marine Ltd (Sembcorp Marine) have set up a new marine research lab in Singapore to develop innovative green solutions for the offshore and maritime industry. The lab will focus its research on eco-friendly solutions for the sustainable growth of the industry, including the use of renewable and clean fuels for marine engines and emission control technologies for mitigating greenhouse gases.
Housed at and led by NTU’s School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, the lab is also a research and development platform which allows Sembcorp Marine and other industry players to utilise its resources for research collaborations with NTU.
It is equipped with the region’s first dual-fuel marine engine, which is funded as part of the Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering postgraduate programme at NTU – supported by the Singapore Economic Development Board (EDB).
NTU researchers will study ways to retrofit ships to operate using two fuel types simultaneously – one of it being clean fuel such as Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) – in a bid to reduce harmful emissions while keeping costs low.
Such solutions are also aimed at delivering competitive advantages, and help shipping companies better prepare for the stringent emission regulations that will come into effect in 2020.
NTU Provost Professor Freddy Boey, said, “Our partnership with SembCorp Marine and the Singapore Economic Development Board combines our strengths and creates fresh synergies, allowing the lab to carry out cutting-edge research in fuel emission management, energy efficiency, and green shipping.”
The lab was officially opened this morning by Mr Wong Weng Sun, President & Chief Executive Officer, Sembcorp Marine.
Professor Lua Aik Chong, Acting Executive Director of Maritime Institute @ NTU and professor-in-charge of the new lab, said, “This lab comes at an important time amid rising energy demands and environmental concerns about carbon emissions and global warming. With international bodies already taking action, the lab will help the industry prepare for the changes, by providing viable and cost effective solutions.”
(Source: NTU)
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