Exhaust scrubber systems onboard vessels

Abstract

The implementation of exhaust cleaning scrubber systems onboard ships represents a critical strategy for reducing air pollution and complying with increasingly emissions regulations. This thesis explored exhaust cleaning scrubber technology, focusing on its different types of designs, operation, and impact within the maritime industry. Using books, websites and online publications, the process itself proved to be eye-opening.

Concerning the environment, exhaust scrubber systems offer benefits and drawbacks. Sulphur emissions have decreased, which is a positive. However, waste wash water discharge contaminate seawater if not well monitored. Therefore, the purpose of this thesis was to educate interested parties such as shipowners, operators, regulators, and policymakers about the advantages and difficulties associated with implementing scrubber technology aboard ships, the various exhaust gas scrubber system designs, the impacts they have on the environment and all the laws that prohibit the discharge of wash water as well as the IMO regulations.