A very large crude carrier (VLCC) with a deadweight tonnage of 300,000 tonnes, equipped with a bionic skin propeller inspired by dolphins and sharks, completed three oil transport journeys during testing, sailing over 200 days and about 35,000 nautical miles between Chinese and Middle Eastern ports.
The trial showed a 2% decrease in fuel consumption, saving over 300 tons of fuel annually, equivalent to a reduction of 900 tons of greenhouse gas emissions and an economic benefit of around €128,000 to €140,000 annually.
The artificial propeller cover was created by researchers from the Ningbo Institute of Materials Technology and Engineering, affiliated with the Chinese Academy of Sciences.
The bionic skin mimics the structure of dolphin skin to reduce turbulence and create mini whirlpool currents that minimize water flow energy, allowing for smooth sailing and minimizing turbulence, similar to how dolphins move effortlessly.
The cost of integrating this bionic skin onto a propeller is estimated at around €18,000 to €20,000, making it financially beneficial and eco-friendly. The material complies with international conventions on harmful antifouling substances on ships.
Maritime transportation is a significant source of greenhouse gas emissions.
Cosco Shipping Energy Transportation and the Ningbo Institute of Materials Technology and Engineering intend to promote the application of bionic skin on over 100 oil tanker ships.
Sources: The Cool Down, Tivi, Mundo Deportivo, Slate, Talouselämä, Tekniikka & Talous, Antara News, Xinhua.
This article was written in collaboration with Generative AI news company Alchemiq.
