Braskem’s new LR1 tanker begins naphta operations in Brazil

Braskem Trading & Shipping’s Beautiful Future has arrived at the Port of Aratu, in Bahia, beginning operations in Brazil as part of the company’s new generation of naphtha carriers.

The LR1 chemical and product tanker can transport up to 89,500 m³ of naphtha per voyage and was designed primarily for the long-haul route between the U.S. Gulf Coast and Brazil, supporting the supply of feedstock to Braskem’s industrial operations.

Beautiful Future is classified as IMO Type 3 and incorporates a biofuel-ready engine, low-friction hull coating, speed and torque control systems and propulsion technologies designed to reduce fuel consumption.

The vessel is also equipped with a scrubber to reduce SOx emissions and Selective Catalytic Reduction technology for NOx control. According to Braskem, the combination of greater energy efficiency and lower fuel consumption can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by approximately 30% compared with conventional vessels currently operated by the company.

Beautiful Future is part of a broader expansion of Braskem Trading & Shipping’s fleet. The company has already incorporated the LR1 Blooming Future and plans to add Blissful Future and Bold Future.

Once all four naphtha vessels are in operation, the fleet will have capacity to transport approximately 40% to 50% of Braskem’s naphtha import demand.

BT&S also operates the ethane carriers Brilliant Future and Brave Future, as Braskem increases its control over maritime logistics for critical feedstocks.