LR awards AIP for pre-combustion carbon from Rotoboost

Classification society Lloyd’s Register (LR) announced that it has granted Approval in Principle (AIP) to Rotoboost, a Nordic hydrogen production company, for its Pre-Combustion Carbon Capture System (CCS) Rotobox. Rotobox uses a shipboard thermocatalytic decomposition (TCD) process that converts part of the natural gas fuel to hydrogen and graphite using a liquid catalyst.

The TCD process significantly reduces CO2 emissions, particulate matter and methane slip by producing hydrogen while simultaneously capturing carbon in its solid form. Rotobox is able to reduce total CO2 emissions by up to 100% depending on the heating method used. Converted hydrogen from the CCS can be used for fuel cells or as an admixture fuel for internal combustion engines or gas boilers.

Rotoboost’s solution is scalable to meet future emissions regulations, with lower power consumption compared to traditional CO2 capture systems and less storage space required for fixed carbon, keeping the system and associated storage compact even for long journeys. The system is well-suited for liquefied natural gas (LNG) tankers and other LNG-powered vessels, providing vessel owners with an additional decarbonization option.

The AIP validates Rotoboost’s CCS system as compliant with LR’s targeted and comprehensive regulatory requirements, marking another milestone in the evolution of CO2 capture technology.

Kaisa Nikulainen, Chief Executive Officer of Rotoboost, said: “Our technology opens up a new perspective on fossil fuels and shows how they can be equally environmentally friendly when used innovatively. is also an excellent battery-grade anode material for electric cars and green steel production. This circular economy represents a powerful tool to combat global warming and climate change on land and at sea. Our technology also shows great potential for low-cost production of green methanol and ammonia in land-based plants, providing the marine industry with more affordable alternative fuel options.”

Andy McKeran, Lloyd’s Register Chief Commercial Officer, said: “I believe the decarbonisation of shipping starts now and we need to find solutions today that reduce emissions. Therefore I am pleased to give Rotoboost the approval in principle for their innovative CO2 capture system. Solving industry perceptions of methane emissions through technology and evidence enables LNG to become a future fuel that is readily available today, subject to affordability – ranking higher than any other purportedly lower emissions fuel available today.”