Multi-fuel SOFC powertrain for maritime transport

Expected Outcome:Maritime transport is a vital component of society worldwide and faces environmental challenges due to its contribution to global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The International Maritime Organisation’s (IMO) revised GHG Strategy includes an enhanced common ambition to reach net-zero GHG emissions from international shipping by or around 2050, with a commitment to ensure an uptake of alternative zero and near-zero GHG fuels by 2030, as well as indicative checkpoints for 2030 and 2040 considering different national circumstances.This creates an urgent need for innovative solutions not only to reduce local pollutant emissions (SOx, NOx and PM) but also to decarbonise maritime transport. Current technologies based on hydrogen, ammonia and sustainable fuels have become important alternatives and have attracted the interest of port authorities, ship builders’ propulsion systems manufacturers as well as end-users (ship owners).From the users’ side, Internal Combustion Engines (ICEs) are currently being developed to use the above-mentioned alternative fuels. Nevertheless, PEMFCs are gaining momentum with increasing sizes, making it possible to use FCs in propulsion of waterborne vessels. Although ICEs can already be operated with alternative fuels and in multi-fuel arrangement, challenged remain to match the very low emissions achievable by FCs, especially under dynamic and idling operation. Moreover, ICEs may reach efficiencies in the 50 % range, inferior to most FC technologies.PEMFCs require high-purity hydrogen but storing hydrogen onboard as a gas is bulky and less suitable for long-duration missions or high-power demands. Although liquid hydrogen offers higher energy density, it introduces energy penalties and operational complexities—such as cryogenic storage—which makes it a less preferred option for many types of vessels. Besides, given the limited availability of hydrogen as a fuel, there is a strong desire for FC technologies which can be opera