Braskem launches new ethane carrier to enhance logistics
Brazilian petrochemical company Braskem has unveiled its latest vessel, the Brave Future, valued at approximately 500m reais ($89.8m).
This ethane carrier is expected to enhance Braskem’s logistics independence by operating routes between the US, Mexico, and Brazil, thereby minimising maritime transport costs and boosting its global competitiveness.
Financing for the vessel was secured from Ocean Yield, while Hartmann Reederei will manage its operations.
The christening ceremony took place at the YAMIC shipyard in China, where the vessel was constructed.
Prior to the christening, the vessel completed sea trials, a thorough testing phase to evaluate safety, speed, manoeuvrability, and equipment performance before entering commercial operations.
Measuring 188m in length and capable of holding 36,000m³ of cargo, the Brave Future is engineered to transport ethane at extremely low temperatures, reaching as low as -104°C.
The ship is equipped with a dual-fuel engine that can run on both bunker oil and ethane.
The vessel features high fuel efficiency and propulsion performance, achieving about 40% lower CO2 emissions compared to the current average fleet.
Braskem Trading & Shipping (BT&S) director Hardi Schuck said: “Brave Future is a strategic asset that enhances our logistics autonomy, provides greater predictability to operations, and strengthens our position as a global leader in the petrochemical industry.”
With the Brave Future, Braskem’s fleet now includes two dedicated ethane carriers, alongside the Brilliant Future.
The company also plans to introduce four additional vessels by 2026.
Braskem offers a diverse range of plastic resins and chemical products for multiple sectors, such as food packaging, construction, automotive, agribusiness, healthcare, and hygiene.
The company operates 40 industrial units across Brazil, the US, Mexico, and Germany, and exports to customers in more than 71 countries, supported by a workforce of 8,500 employees.
