ADM completes first trial voyage using 100% biofuel

US agribusiness company ADM has successfully completed its first trial voyage of the MV Harvest Rain powered by 100% B100 biofuel. The five-day trial took place off the coast of Brazil and marked another step in the company’s efforts to reduce emissions from its marine logistics operations.

During the voyage, ADM teams tested B100 under real-world operating conditions. The trial assessed biofuel storage and purification, fuel delivery to the propulsion system, engine performance and the impact of using the alternative fuel on day-to-day crew operations.

Marine transportation is a key part of ADM’s global agricultural supply chain. The company views biofuels as one of the options available to reduce shipping emissions today without having to wait for the large-scale deployment of new marine engines and other alternative technologies.

The results of the trial voyage will help ADM assess the potential for wider use of B100 across its marine logistics operations. The company also sees the use of biofuels as part of its long-term ambition to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.

The MV Harvest Rain voyage was also notable for the structure of the logistics chain. For the first time, ADM acted simultaneously as the exporter, charterer and vessel owner, as well as the receiver and processor of the cargo.

Tags: biofuel, ADM