Membrane Fuel Tank Vent Control Systems

Ships' fuel tank vents release significant quantities of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the atmosphere during fuel loading and transfer operations. Environmental regulations, safety and economy require that these emissions be controlled. Current technology is not suited to shipboard applications. This Phase I program covers the design of membrane-based emissions control systems for this application. A similar system is already being field tested for emissions control at an automobile gasoline station. The systems are compact, lightweight, and economical and achieve greater than 95% VOC recovery. In the Phase I program, units will be designed for a range of shipboard emissions. The systems will be costed and their performance compared to alternative conventional technology. If the membrane systems offer the advantages expected, demonstration systems Will be built and tested in port and at sea in Phase H.