Next up in the KTP Net-Zero series, we head to the maritime sector. This KTP between Silverstream Technologies and the University of Southampton is working to introduce an AI solution to Silverstream’s air lubrication system to improve the efficiency of shipping.  

About Silverstream Technologies

Silverstream Technologies is a leading maritime clean technology company. Its innovative technology, the Silverstream® System, is the market-leading air lubrication system (ALS) and can be fitted to new and existing vessels to reduce energy consumption and associated emissions.

Air lubrication fundamentally changes the interaction between water and a vessel’s hull, shearing air from air release units in the hull to create a carpet of microbubbles that coats the full flat bottom of a vessel. As a result, frictional resistance is decreased – dramatically reducing fuel consumption and associated emissions (consisting primarily of CO2, SOx and NOx).

As maritime cleantech market leaders, Silverstream understands the relevance and importance of its solution to the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) decarbonisation goals and passionately believes in the role of proven, innovative solutions to enable a more sustainable shipping industry.

About this KTP 

The KTP with the University of Southampton and  KTP Associate Dr Josef Camilleri looks to utilise Artificial Intelligence and advance data analytics to enhance the performance of Silverstream’s air lubrication technology. The project is still ongoing and is expected to run until October 2022. Here’s what the KTP Associate had to say about the project: 

“The KTP is an excellent opportunity to apply the latest academic research and thinking to solve a real-world problem and help the shipping industry achieve its Net Zero targets. The challenge of applying air lubrication to a ship is complex and with many interrelated variables.

In this project, we are looking at using machine learning techniques to learn these complex relationships, not only to get a better understanding of the Silverstream® System’s behaviour, but also to optimise its performance across a wide range of operational and environmental conditions. It’s a fascinating project to be a part of and I’m very pleased to be working at Silverstream at such an exciting time in its growth journey.”

Josef Camilleri, KTP Associate – Silverstream Technologies

About Knowledge Transfer Partnerships

Knowledge Transfer Partnerships are a dynamic three-way collaboration between a business or not for profit organisation, one of the UK’s world-class knowledge bases, and a suitably qualified graduate. 

Knowledge Transfer Partnerships are funded by a grant to the university from Innovate UK and other government co-funders, and a cash contribution from the business involved. The programme is delivered by Knowledge Transfer Network, a network partner of Innovate UK.

Interested in learning more? Find out here.