Greenhouse Gas Emission Analysis by LNG Fuel Tank Size through Life Cycle

Abstract

As greenhouse gas emissions from maritime transport are increasing, the International Maritime Organization is continuously working to strengthen emission regulations. Liquefied natural gas (LNG) fuel is less advantageous as a point of CO2 reduction due to the methane leakage that occurs during the bunkering and operation of marine engines. In this study, greenhouse gas emissions from an LNG-fueled ship were analyzed from the perspective of the life cycle. The amount ofmethane emission during the bunkering and operation procedures with various boil-off gas (BOG) treatment methods and gas engine specifications was analyzed by dynamic simulation. The results were also compared with those of other liquid fuel engines. As a result, small LNG-fueled ships without a BOG treatment facility emitted 32% more greenhouse gas than ships utilizing marine gas oil or heavy fuel oil. To achieve a greenhouse gas reduction via a BOG treatment method, a gas combustion unit or re-liquefaction system must be mounted, which results in a greenhouse gas reduction effect of about 25% and 30%. As a result of comparing the amount of greenhouse gas generated according to the BOG treatment method used with each tank size from the perspective of the operating cycle with the amounts from using existing marine fuels, the BOG treatment method showed superior effects of greenhouse gas reduction.