| When a container at first glance might seem as a rather simple creation, there is a wealth of interesting technologies connected. Many interesting projects with groundbreaking technologies have been carried out by the R&D teams: -
Cutting edge membrane technology (for modifying the atmosphere in containers). -
Fuel Cell powering of the refrigeration unit. -
Implementation of new fibre reinforced thermoplastics -
Laminated wooden floors -
Steel reinforced plastic floors (from recycled plastics) -
Improve airflow in containers -
Improve temperature control in containers. -
New surface treatment systems -
And many more! | Almost daily the press praises fuel cells and the hydrogen community as a way to eliminate pollution.
The increasing oil prices and the massive focus on emissions from fossil fuels have turned focus on the potential for using fuel cells within Maersk Line.
In order to explore new technology, MCI and Maersk Line has carried out a project in order to investigate the potential of fuel cells in container business.
The content of the project was to investigate and map the fuel cell market and with the knowledge gained build and study the feasibility of a fuel cell powered Gen-set (generator set). Traditionally Gen-sets are driven by a noisy and low efficient diesel engine, making this application an obvious candidate for the new technology. The theory behind the different fuel cell systems was investigated and suppliers worldwide where mapped.
A prototype was designed and built, based on cutting edge fuel cell technology (HT-PEM) combined with high temperature methanol reforming. Combining these technologies has not previously been demonstrated in full size applications. As new technologies were used, no exact guidelines were available. The integration of the components and the computer based control system was developed in-house. The project work was multidisciplinary involving mechanical, chemical and electrical engineering together with project management and economical considerations.
All components of the prototype were tested intensively in the laboratory before final assembly into the Gen-set.
It was a proud project team that late summer 2007 demonstrated a StarCool reefer machine powered by the fuel cell driven Gen-set. A significant advantage of the prototype Gen-set compared to a standard diesel driven gen-set is the almost total lack of noise. Further there are no emissions of NOx and particles. CO2 emissions can be reduced by some 35-40%. | 
