A new shipboard system developed by US-based STAX Engineering and UK climate tech firm Seabound aims to eliminate pollutants and CO2 emissions directly from vessels at sea. This integrated capture system connects to a ship’s exhaust pipe, effectively removing harmful pollutants such as particulate matter (PM) and nitrogen oxides (NOx), which are associated with respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. Maritime shipping contributes to 3% of global emissions, prompting the International Maritime Organization’s goal to cut carbon intensity by 40% by 2030.
The technology has undergone multiple trials, including a significant demonstration in Long Beach, California, where it was installed on a docked container ship. This system combines STAX’s filtration technology, which captures up to 99% of PM and 95% of NOx, with Seabound’s carbon capture unit, isolating up to 95% of CO2 and 90% of sulfur. Since its launch, the system has treated 663 vessels, removing 126 tons of pollutants.
STAX and Seabound are now looking to commercialize their technology, partnering with Japanese shipping giant NYK Line. Additionally, Seabound has collaborated with Hartmann Group and Heidelberg Materials to equip a cement carrier with their carbon capture unit, allowing captured CO2 to be stored as limestone for cement production.
