HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering has launched a new research and development facility named the Marine Innovative Decarbonization R&D at the HD Hyundai Heavy Industries yard in Ulsan.
According to the Korea Herald, the R&D facility is designed to simulate the full sequence of shipboard cargo operations, such as loading, operating, and unloading, employing technologies to reduce carbon emissions. Unlike previous facilities, this new facility aims to prevalidate eco-friendly equipment for installation on actual ships, aiming to improve their reliability and safety.
Initial projects at the facility include verifying the performance of reliquefaction equipment for liquefied carbon dioxide carriers and testing the capability to generate dry ice in ship cargo holds to enhance the preservation and transportation of perishable goods, as reported by the Korean Herald.
By 2026, HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering plans to expand the facility’s testing capabilities to include a broader array of environmentally friendly ship types and propulsion technologies. This will encompass vessels designed to carry ammonia, methanol, and multigas combinations, as well as hybrid electric and hydrogen-fueled ships.
An official from HD Korea Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering emphasized the company’s commitment to leading the eco-friendly ship market by rigorously testing innovative technologies.
