U.S. Navy Expands Algae Biofuel Testing At Sea And In The Air
by Tina Casey (Talking Points Memo) …Earlier this year, the Navy successfully tested a 50-50 algae aviation biofuel blend on a Seahawk helicopter in flight, and now an algae biodiesel blend has passed muster during tests on a 135-foot landing vessel.
The ship, a conventional Landing Craft Utility (LCU) 1600-class, went through its paces earlier this month using a marine fuel blend composed of one-half algae biodiesel and one-half NATO standard multi-purpose naval fuel, called F-76.
The LCU is commonly used to transport troops and supplies over relatively short distances, from a ship or seagoing base to shore.
…LCU tests show that an algae biofuel blend can be used as a drop-in replacement for conventional fuel, without the need for any modifications to the engine, fuel tanks or exhaust system.
The LCU is among at least three new vessels undergoing biofuel tests this fall. The Navy also plans on testing biofuel on a decommissioned destroyer in November, and on a Landing Craft – Air Cushioned (LCAC) vessel in December. READ MORE
