Sat Nov 23 08:30:25 UTC 2024: ## Biofuel Blend Causes Operational Problems for Ships in Singapore and Rotterdam
**Singapore/Rotterdam, November 23, 2024** – Several ships operating in Singapore and Rotterdam have experienced significant operational issues after using marine fuel blended with cashew nutshell liquid biofuel, according to a recent advisory from fuel testing agency CTI-Maritec.
The agency reported that tests revealed the problematic fuel contained cashew nutshell liquid from an undeclared source, leading to a range of problems including fuel sludging, injector failure, filter clogging, system deposits, and turbocharger nozzle ring corrosion. While CTI-Maritec did not disclose the number of affected vessels or the shipping lines involved, the advisory strongly cautions ship owners against using 100% cashew nutshell liquid or unapproved bio-products in marine diesel engines.
Cashew nutshell liquid, a byproduct of the cashew industry, has been explored as a potential renewable fuel alternative. However, its high acidity and corrosive properties make it unsuitable for use without proper vetting and according to established industry standards. The current ISO 8217 marine fuel specification does not include cashew nutshell liquid.
The use of the biofuel blend contravenes International Maritime Organisation guidelines on fuel oil supply. The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore and the Port of Rotterdam have yet to comment on the incident. The advisory highlights the ongoing search for cleaner marine fuels and the importance of adhering to established standards when implementing alternative biofuels.
First Piper 