(MENAFN) China has successfully launched the maiden voyage of the world’s first vessel powered solely by ammonia, marking a significant milestone in clean energy shipping, a media outlet reported Saturday.

Constructed in China and tested in Anhui province, the demonstration ship—named “Anhui”—features a 200-kilowatt high-speed gas internal combustion generator. It’s also equipped with two 100-kilowatt propulsion motors and a twin-screw propulsion system, according to the media outlet.

The vessel is designed to transport up to 50 tons of cargo and operates at a standard cruising speed of 10 knots.

Ammonia is gaining traction as a marine fuel due to its high energy density and cleaner emissions profile. When fully burned, it produces only nitrogen and water, making it a promising candidate for decarbonizing maritime transport, the media outlet noted.

However, ammonia as a fuel still presents technical hurdles—including ignition difficulties and challenges in maintaining stable combustion.

The media outlet reported: “The maiden voyage achieved stable combustion of pure ammonia fuel, nearly zero carbon dioxide emissions, and effective control of nitrogen oxides.”

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