AIPs for 150k cbm LH2 carrier design and LH2 membrane containment system

The new type of ship design was developed by GTT, TotalEnergies, LMG Marin and BV as part of a joint development project (JDP). The 150,000m3 capacity LH2 carrier concept design will be fitted with a membrane-type containment system from GTT.

The Motorship produced an in-depth feature on the project in July 2023. The ability to safely transport large volumes of hydrogen in liquefied form at -253°C (only 20°C above absolute zero) is one of the major technological challenges that the project partners aim to overcome to ensure a reliable, efficient, safe and competitive global carbon-free hydrogen value chain.

TotalEnergies, GTT, LMG Marin and Bureau Veritas collaorated in the development of the innovative large-scale LH₂ carrier concept. Each member has contributed specific expertise and know-how, demonstrating a collective commitment to finding solutions to the climate challenge:

• TotalEnergies specified the design codes, the vessel’s limits in terms of dimensions and capacity, the requirements for the propulsion mode and the associated CO₂ emissions on the shipping routes envisaged;
• GTT designed the membrane containment system and the cargo management system, taking into account the constraints associated with liquefied hydrogen;
• LMG Marin developed the 150,000m³ vessel design, adapted to the specifications, operational profile and incorporating the membrane containment system;
• Bureau Veritas carried out a risk assessment, reviewed the designs in line with the latest regulatory requirements, and ensured that they met Bureau Veritas rules.

Philippe Berterottière, Chairman and CEO of GTT, declares: “Alongside TotalEnergies, LMG Marin and Bureau Veritas, we are proud to have met this ambitious technological and environmental challenge for the maritime transport of liquefied hydrogen. GTT’s ability to design a breakthrough technology suitable for large vessels is a major step forward for the development of the hydrogen industry.” ,

Karine Boissy-Rousseau, Director of Green Gases at TotalEnergies, comments: “This joint development project has enabled us to gain a better understanding of the liquefied hydrogen supply chain and the associated challenges. We have reached a major milestone in the development of this sector, and the complementarity between TotalEnergies, GTT, LMG Marin and Bureau Veritas has made a major contribution to this.”

Vincent Rudelle, Managing Director of LMG Marin France, underlines: “This project illustrates the ability of French industry, with TotalEnergies, GTT, LMG Marin France and Bureau Veritas, to play a leading role in the transformation of the maritime world and energy supply. With the emergence of previously unexplored energy vectors, a whole global supply chain needs to be built, and the conclusions of this JDP provide an initial outline of the maritime aspect. With the development of this innovative vessel of almost 290m, transporting 150,000 m3 of cargo at -253°C in a carbon-free way, LMG Marin France confirms its ability to address the most innovative issues, and thus reinforces its position as a leader in the decarbonisation of the maritime sector.”

Matthieu de Tugny, President of Bureau Veritas Marine & Offshore, concludes: “We are very pleased to be able to award these two AIPs, which testify to the quality of the technical work carried out on innovative subjects, and to the availability of the latest technology.”