SMART – Sustainable MArine pollutant Reduction Technology

The maritime sector faces a major challenge: ships must significantly reduce CO₂ and harmful emissions while continuing to transport the same volume of goods. At the same time, new operating methods and alternative fuels are changing how engines function and how exhaust gases behave. This makes it harder to control emissions effectively. SMART develops targeted solutions to tackle this challenge.

SMART combines:

• Smarter engine operation: optimization of engines through adjusted settings and systems that can operate on multiple fuels
• Advanced exhaust gas treatment: development of innovative, improved exhaust gas treatment catalysts (advanced filters that clean harmful substances from exhaust gases) that remain effective even when temperature, composition, and engine behavior change.

These catalysts are developed according to sustainable principles: they are recyclable, avoid the use of scarce precious metals, and operate without additional substances such as ammonia. In addition, the project builds new, practical knowledge by:

• collecting data on exhaust gases under different engine settings and fuel types
• developing new and innovative catalysts
• testing these solutions/catalysts under realistic conditions

Target audience

SMART targets companies and organizations active in the maritime and logistics chain:

• Shipping companies and transport operators: prepare your fleet for stricter emission regulations and optimize operational efficiency (reduce fuel and emissions)
• Shipbuilders: develop vessels that are ready for future standards and technologies
• Engine manufacturers: respond to new requirements regarding engine performance and emissions
• Companies active in fuels and additives: align your solutions with changing engine and emission conditions
• Developers of catalytic exhaust treatment technologies (technologies that clean exhaust gases using chemical processes): contribute to the next generation of sustainable solutions

What does the project offer?

SMART focuses on improving the environmental performance of shipping by:

• improving combustion and overall operational efficiency
• introducing advanced exhaust gas treatment systems to reduce harmful emissions
• applying an integrated approach to maximize emission reductions by:
  • implementing operational measures and dual-fuel systems at engine level
  • developing innovative exhaust gas treatment catalysts adapted to change exhaust gas properties, composition, and temperature
• designing catalysts that limit the use of critical raw materials and reduce reliance on ammonia

In this way, SMART helps companies not only comply with future regulations, but also strengthen their competitive position.

Why now?

Pressure on the maritime sector is increasing rapidly. International targets require a significant reduction in emissions by 2030 and 2050. At the same time, many ships will remain in operation for years to come, making it essential to develop solutions that can be applied to existing systems as well.

Flanders, with its strong ports and logistics network, plays a key role in the European economy. Innovation is crucial to maintain this position. SMART responds to this need and contributes to low-emission transport and sustainable logistics chains.

SMART is carried out by a strong consortium of Flemish knowledge institutions and organizations, including the University of Antwerp, VITO, Antwerp Maritime Academy, Karel de Grote Hogeschool, and VIL.