Coming Soon

« Company Overview
0
2025-09-01 to 2026-03-31
Collaborative R&D
Global energy efficiency requirements from the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and global and regional limits on GHG emissions underscore the need to improve efficiency in the maritime transport sector. Optimized technologies aimed at reducing biofouling could significantly contribute to lowering emissions and meeting IMO goals. Stricter requirements on anti-fouling systems outlined in "The International Convention on the Control of Harmful Anti-Fouling Systems on Ships" also pose a challenge that calls for innovative technological solutions to reduce biofouling. In this project, we will address this challenge by developing and testing (to TRL 4) a new system for underwater laser cleaning of biofouling on ship hulls. Feasibility studies of three technological approaches will be carried out by Fraunhofer UK using the laser systems developed by TRUMPF. This will be followed by a Lifecycle assessment (LCA) of the impact the technology will have on the reduction of GHG and fuel consumption in the maritime transport sector, which will be delivered by the project partner University of Strathclyde in close collaboration with partnering shipyards. At the end of the project, the new technology on underwater ship hull cleaning will be demonstrated with a proven positive impact on energy efficiency in the maritime transport sector. The technology will facilitate lower energy consumption, a vital issue even for novel ships powered by alternative fuels.