Gulf Marine Advances Maritime Decarbonisation at CIMAC Congress 2025
23 May 2025
At the CIMAC Congress 2025, Gulf Marine took centre stage as Paul Elliott, our Senior Technical Manager, presented our research findings on the impact of ammonia aging on lubricants performance. This study, focused on ammonia as a zero-carbon marine fuel, underscores Gulf Marine’s commitment to supporting the shipping industry’s transition to a low-carbon future. As a key player in the marine lubricant market, we are dedicated to delivering market-leading customer satisfaction through reliability, responsiveness, and sustainable practices.
Paul Elliott, our Senior Technical Manager presented our research findings at CIMAC Congress 2025
Exploring Ammonia Aging on GulfSea lubricants
The maritime industry is under increasing pressure to reduce emissions, and alternative fuels like ammonia are gaining traction due to their potential as zero-carbon solutions. Ammonia’s appeal lies in its global availability, but its use as a marine engine fuel poses unique challenges for lubricants, which Gulf Marine’s research set out to address.
Key Findings
Our study examined the effects of ammonia and nitrogen dioxide contaminants on both cylinder and system oils under controlled, severe conditions. By simulating these harsh environments, we aimed to understand how lubricants perform when exposed to such alternative fuels, providing valuable insights for vessel operators transitioning to greener options.
Key Findings from Gulf Marine’s Research
Gulf Marine’s comprehensive study revealed several critical insights into lubricant performance:
Oil Degradation Study Launched: We conducted comprehensive study on the degradation of cylinder and system oils under controlled exposure to ammonia and nitrogen dioxide contaminants.
Minor Performance Issues Found: The results showed only minor degradation across key parameters, such as oxidation, corrosion, deposit formation and wear, even under very severe conditions, aligning with findings from comparable studies.
Lab Insights Require Monitoring: While lab tests cannot fully replicate real-world engine conditions, they highlight the need for close monitoring of lubricant performance as alternative fuels are adopted. These findings align with comparable studies, reinforcing the reliability of our approach.
Paul Elliott concluded, “Our research confirms that our lubricants can adapt to ammonia’s challenges, positioning Gulf Marine to lead the maritime industry toward a sustainable, low-carbon future.” This statement reflects our proactive stance in addressing the industry’s evolving needs.
