KR approves Hi-CLEARS ammonia solution

Developed jointly by HD Hyundai Heavy Industries (HD HHI), HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering (HD KSOE) and KR, Hi-CLEARS (Hyundai integrated Clean Liquid based Ammonia Release mitigation system with SCR) is designed to capture and neutralise leaked ammonia during vessel operation.

The system converts the gas into aqueous ammonia and repurposes it in a selective catalytic reduction system to treat harmful emissions, achieving zero discharge to both sea and air.

“Hi-CLEARS safely processes ammonia leaks and treats the resulting liquid through SCR, thereby meeting both safety and environmental regulations,” said Yoo Byungyong, senior vice president of HD KSOE.

“Through close cooperation with KR, we have enhanced its commercial viability while also strengthening our global competitiveness.”

The system’s approval was facilitated by a revised IACS Unified Requirement M77 – spearheaded by KR – which now permits the use of aqueous ammonia as a reductant in SCR systems, previously restricted due to safety concerns.

“This AiP goes beyond technical validation to advancing international standards,” said Lee Yongsok, executive vice president of KR.

“We are committed to refining technical rules and leading the decarbonisation transition as a trusted partner to the global maritime community.”

Ryu Hongryeul, chief technology officer of HD HHI, added, “This joint development marks an important achievement in addressing key challenges of ammonia-fuelled vessels. We will further reinforce our leadership in next-generation eco-friendly technologies.”

KR has recently approved another initiative aimed at increasing safety on board ammonia-fuelled vessels, namely a water-based system developed by HD Hyundai Samho.