Nippon Yuka Kogyo Co. Ltd., a subsidiary of the NYK Group known for its expertise in chemical research and production of specialized chemical products, has announced the launch of BioxiGuard, Japan’s first antioxidant developed specifically for marine biodiesel fuel. The product will be commercially available starting August 10 and represents a significant advancement in sustainable fuel technology for the maritime sector, reported Chemanalyst.
Biofuels have been increasingly adopted in shipping due to their potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Made from renewable sources such as used cooking oil and agricultural products like grains, biofuels offer a promising path toward greener maritime operations. However, biofuels also present challenges, primarily because of their high levels of unsaturated fatty acids, which make them more prone to oxidative degradation compared to traditional petroleum fuels.
Oxidation leads to the formation of acids and sludge, which can lower fuel quality, reduce engine efficiency, and cause operational issues such as corrosion, blockages, and fouling in fuel systems. To address these problems, Nippon Yuka developed BioxiGuard after thorough analysis of biofuels used in NYK-operated vessels. This specialized antioxidant improves the oxidative stability of marine biodiesel, slowing degradation and helping maintain fuel performance over time.
Laboratory tests showed that adding BioxiGuard at a ratio of 1 part per 500 reduced oxidative degradation by about 50% compared to untreated fuel. This improvement extends the storage life of biofuel onboard ships and supports more reliable and cost-effective operations.
Beyond BioxiGuard, Nippon Yuka continues to develop advanced solutions to tackle challenges associated with marine biofuels, aiming to help ship operators transition to sustainable fuels without sacrificing safety or efficiency.
The launch of BioxiGuard highlights Nippon Yuka’s commitment to innovation and environmental stewardship. By addressing a key barrier to the broader use of marine biodiesel, the product supports the maritime industry’s goals for decarbonization and contributes to a cleaner, more sustainable future for global shipping.
