Tokyo, Japan — Nippon Yuka Kogyo Co., Ltd. (Nippon Yuka), a subsidiary of the NYK Group, has announced the release of BioxiGuard—Japan’s first antioxidant formulated specifically for marine biodiesel fuel. The product is scheduled to hit the market on August 10, marking a significant milestone in the maritime industry’s shift toward cleaner energy solutions.
“New additive cuts biofuel degradation by 50%, supporting cleaner and more efficient vessel operations.”
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Tackling a Core Challenge of Marine Biofuels
Marine biofuels, particularly those derived from fatty acid methyl esters (FAME), are becoming an increasingly viable alternative to conventional fossil fuels due to their lower lifecycle carbon emissions and renewable feedstocks, such as waste cooking oils and agricultural byproducts. However, one of the longstanding technical hurdles for biofuel use at sea has been oxidative degradation—a process by which exposure to air and heat causes the fuel to deteriorate, leading to acid formation, sludge deposits, and decreased calorific value.
This degradation is primarily driven by the high content of unsaturated fatty acids in biodiesel, making it significantly more vulnerable than petroleum-based fuels.
Enter BioxiGuard: An Innovation from the Lab to the Sea
Developed through intensive in-house research and testing using biofuels onboard NYK-operated vessels, BioxiGuard was engineered to directly address the oxidation stability challenges of marine biodiesel.
According to experimental results shared by Nippon Yuka, the application of BioxiGuard at a concentration of 1 part per 500 led to a 50% reduction in the rate of oxidative degradation. This not only extends the onboard lifespan of stored biofuel but also helps prevent operational issues such as:
- Metal corrosion
- Strainer blockage
- Fuel cleaning system fouling
These benefits ultimately translate into higher fuel efficiency, lower maintenance costs, and increased reliability for ship operators using bio-based fuels.
Product Details
- Product Name: BioxiGuard
- Target Fuel: Biodiesel (FAME – Fatty Acid Methyl Ester)
- Release Date: August 10
- Contact: Nippon Yuka Kogyo, Sales Department 1
Commitment to a Greener Maritime Future
Beyond this product launch, Nippon Yuka emphasizes its long-term commitment to supporting decarbonization in the maritime industry. The company is actively pursuing further R&D initiatives to develop additional additives and treatment solutions that will enhance the viability and performance of alternative fuels under demanding marine operating conditions.
This innovation aligns closely with the NYK Group’s broader environmental strategy, which includes increasing the adoption of alternative fuels and reducing the carbon footprint of global shipping operations.
As maritime stakeholders continue to seek practical solutions for sustainable operations, BioxiGuard represents a vital step toward bridging the gap between environmental responsibility and operational reliability.
For further information or technical inquiries about BioxiGuard, please contact the Sales Department 1 at Nippon Yuka Kogyo Co., Ltd.
About Nippon Yuka Kogyo Co., Ltd.
Nippon Yuka Kogyo Co., Ltd. is a specialized chemical company within the NYK Group, dedicated to the research, development, manufacture, and sale of high-performance chemical products for the maritime industry. With decades of expertise, Nippon Yuka provides a wide range of marine additives and treatment solutions, including fuel additives, lubricants, and water treatment chemicals, all designed to enhance vessel safety, efficiency, and environmental compliance.
The company plays a key role in supporting the maritime sector’s transition to sustainable operations, as evidenced by its latest innovation, BioxiGuard—the first antioxidant in Japan developed specifically for marine biodiesel fuels.
About NYK Group
NYK Group (Nippon Yusen Kabushiki Kaisha) is one of the world’s largest and most diversified transportation companies, headquartered in Tokyo, Japan. Founded in 1885, the group operates a global network encompassing container shipping, bulk shipping, logistics, and cruise services. With a strong commitment to innovation and sustainability, NYK is at the forefront of maritime decarbonization efforts, actively investing in alternative fuels, digitalization, and next-generation vessel technologies.
NYK Line, formally known as Nippon Yusen Kabushiki Kaisha, has emerged as a global leader in the maritime industry over its 135-year history. Operating a diverse fleet, including container ships, bulk carriers, and tankers, NYK serves over 800 locations worldwide, offering a comprehensive suite of shipping services.
NYK Line has earned recognition for its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and safety, navigating the complexities of global logistics with diligence and foresight. This ongoing dedication underscores NYK’s pivotal role in shaping the future of ocean transport and reaffirms its status as a cornerstone of the maritime landscape.
Through its subsidiaries—such as Nippon Yuka Kogyo Co., Ltd.—NYK also engages in marine-related R&D, contributing to safer, cleaner, and more efficient shipping operations worldwide.
Source NYK Group