Martek delivers sophisticated” system

Martek says the system is unique, and so complicated that no other company was willing to even quote for the project.

The equipment monitors nitrogen oxide (NOx), sulphur oxide (SOx), carbon dioxide (CO2), carbon (C), methane (CH4), total hydrocarbons, non methane hydrocarbons, benzene, nitrous oxide (N2O) and particulates.

Benzene and nitrous oxide are only monitored very rarely. Martek used specialist analysis technique to ensure Benzene is measured at levels below 1ppm.

Steve Austwick, project manager, Martek, said: “This is the biggest and most complex system ever built in the marine industry. The fact that no other supplier was prepared to take on this project underpins our position as the market leader.”

As the EU pushes for emission monitoring legislation for the maritime industry, Martek says it expects to build more complex monitoring systems.

Another factor will be the entry into force of ECAs, and later, tightening of ECArequirements.

The first ECA in North America, covering ships trading off the coasts of Canada and the United States, came into effect on 1 August 2012 and enforces stricter controls on SOx, NOx and particulate matter emissions.

North America is the third functioning ECA, the others restrict only sulphur dioxide and they are in the Baltic Sea and the North Sea/English Channel areas.

A fourth is due to come into force in the Caribbean Sea on 1 January 2014.

The 173, 400m³ FSRU, which can also function as an LNG carrier, is due for delivery in May 2014 when it will be deployed in Brazil.