On-board hydrogen transport

This LAP analyses the specific requirements for hydrogen when transported on-board vessels, together with the authorities competent to apply the rules and standards.

Transportation of compressed or refrigerated hydrogen in bulk or as packed cargo, excluded from the ship's own cargo tanks.

The maritime transport of Liquified hydrogen as cargo is partially covered by interim recommendations contained in resolution MSC. 420(97) while compressed hydrogen needs to follow the same rules as gases with low flash points such as compressed natural gas, given their similar properties. Nevertheless, on-board hydrogen transport is characterized by an operational barrier, stemming from limited administrative and practical experience
However, the HyLAW study was not able to find documentation on the experiences of operators and authorities so far and do not have enough information to assess the severity of this barrier.