Dutch-owned bulker, “BONTRUP AMSTERDAM,” has installed an “Integrated Dry Exhaust Gas Cleaning System,” developed by UK-based company SodaFlexx. The dry exhaust system uses sodium bicarbonate powder to neutralize sulfur compounds (SOx) in the outgoing exhaust gas, making it an alternative to traditional scrubber systems that produce “wash residue,” which is considered a pollutant.
BONTRUP AMSTERDAM, which is a 39-year-old dry bulker owned by Dutch company Bontrup, is 65,400 dwt, 736 feet long, and powered by a traditional heavy fuel propulsion plant. The dry exhaust system was installed in Amsterdam in late February, and the installation took less than three days. The vessel resumed service in the first week of March, sailing from the Netherlands to the UK.
SodaFlexx’s system uses AI to ensure optimal adsorbent release for the required emissions zone. The system allows ships to use High Sulphur Fuel Oil (HSFO) and still meet emission requirements. HSFO is a cheaper alternative to other options, such as VLSFO (Very Low Sulfur Fuel Oil) or MGO (Marine Gas Oil), and the preferred option for owners of older vessels whose engines were designed to use HSFO. The system can also be connected to auxiliary generators, boilers, and incinerators.
SodaFlexx’s dry exhaust system produces a highly stable and non-toxic salt (sodium sulfate), which can be released into the atmosphere or collected and recycled. This technology enables older ships to comply with increasing exhaust regulation requirements while avoiding the production of wash residue that is harmful to the environment.
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