The Effect of Fatty Acid Methyl Esters and Hydrogenated Vegetable Oils on Oxidation Stability, Cold Properties and Lubricity of Marine Distillate Fuels

Shipping plays a vital role in the world economy. Around 90% of the world’s trade is transported by ship in a cost-effective and reliable manner. Global shipping is responsible for 2-3% of the total global CO₂ emissions. In addition, shipping accounts for up to 4-9% of all sulphur, and 10-15% of all nitrous oxide emissions. Without taking any measures, these emissions would more than double as seaborne trade is expected to further grow from 30 billion tone miles in 2006 to more than 100 billion in 2050. To counter these emissions the international community has developed frameworks for energy efficiency measures, as well as emission reduction targets for SO_x and NO_x in appointed ECAs (Emission Control Areas). Biofuels satisfy fully or partially the new emission regulations and sulfur limits without compromising the economy. The goal of this work is to study and evaluate the physicochemical properties of conventional marine distillate fuel and its blends with renewable-alternative fuels (UCOME (Used Cooking Oils Methyl Esters) and HVO (Hydrogenated Vegetable Oils)).