South Korean shipbuilding giant HD Hyundai Heavy Industries has taken a revolutionary step toward zero-carbon shipping by completing the world’s first ammonia-powered vessels. Built for Belgian company Exmar, the mid-sized gas carriers “Antwerpen” and “Arlon” run on ammonia fuel, which is carbon-free and easier to store compared to hydrogen. With ammonia expected to account for nearly half of the global maritime fuel market by 2050, this delivery marks the beginning of a new era in sustainable shipping.
Unveiled at a ceremony in Ulsan shipyard, the 190-meter-long vessels are designed to transport liquefied gases such as ammonia and LPG while also using ammonia as their primary fuel source. Scheduled for delivery by July this year, the ships offer a strong alternative to both fossil fuels and hydrogen. Thanks to its carbon-free nature and ability to remain liquid at -33°C, ammonia is considered a more practical and cost-effective option compared to hydrogen, which requires extreme cooling. This stability makes integration into existing maritime infrastructure easier while significantly reducing CO₂ emissions across global supply chains.
To ensure safe use of ammonia fuel, HD Hyundai equipped the vessels with advanced safety systems. These include real-time gas sensors that detect potential leaks instantly, as well as a dedicated recovery unit capable of capturing and managing ammonia vapor. In addition, shaft generator technology, which produces electricity from the rotation of the propeller shaft while the vessel is in motion, further enhances overall energy efficiency.
According to the International Energy Agency, ammonia is expected to account for approximately 46% of global shipping fuel by 2050. Aligning its strategy with this forecast, HD Hyundai is strengthening its leadership in the market with six additional ammonia-fueled ship projects currently under construction. Building on its earlier success with methanol-powered vessels, the company aims to boost its competitiveness in the global green shipping sector through ammonia technology.
Source: Solarbaba – In Turkish
