High Catalyst Fines (Catfines) found at Singapore Ports
High Catalyst Fines (Catfines) found at Singapore Ports
FINDINGS & INSIGHTS
During the period of 25 July 2025 to 02 August 2025, Maritec Pte Ltd (hereafter referred to as Maritec-Naias) tested forty samples representing VLSFO deliveries from various suppliers at Singapore ports, which indicated Aluminium and Silicon (Al+Si) concentrations ranging from 51 mg/Kg up to 120 mg/kg.
Maritec-Naias findings of Al+Si concentrations in the forty samples tested were as follows:
- Two samples indicated Al+Si concentrations above 100 mg/Kg levels
- Eleven samples indicated Al+Si concentrations above 60 mg/Kg levels
- Twenty-nine samples indicated Al+Si concentrations between 51 to 60 mg/Kg levels
While thirty eight out of forty samples fell within the specifications of ISO8217:2005 (80 ppm) and even within the ISO8217:2010/2017 specifications (including permitted limits of 72 PPM as per ISO4259 for a single test result), the Catfines content can still be considered at high levels.
Aluminium and Silicon are main classes of abrasive solids found in fuels. High levels of abrasive particles at the engine inlet may lead to abnormal wear and tear of the fuel system components, piston rings and cylinder liners. In fact, to control the amount of catalyst fines delivered to the engine, many engine builders specify a maximum limit of 15 mg/kg of Aluminium plus Silicon at the engine inlet.
An efficiently operating fuel purification system is the preliminary method of removing these particles. Measuring the fuel’s Aluminium and Silicon concentrations before and after the system’s centrifuge provides an indication of the efficiency of the purification system in removing catalyst fines.
OUR RECOMMENDATIONS
Maritec-Naias recommends collecting samples from within the fuel system at points such as the fuel oil tank transfer pump, before and after centrifuge, service tank and after filter samples to check the fuel cleaning efficiency.
Maritec-Naias states, while all presented findings are true, this document, does not reflect on the overall quality of fuel being supplied in the Singapore region. If you intend to bunker at this region please request a Certificate of Quality prior to loading.
Maritec-Naias can assist you with further information on quality of bunkers tested in different regions. If you require any other information or assistance do not hesitate to Contact us.
DOWNLOAD BUNKER_FLASH_BF202508-07
Bunker Fuel Quality Testing
Routine Testing for Conventional Bunker Fuels, Biofuels, Marine Methanol & Alternative Fuels
Our extensive Marine Fuel Testing Programme (MFTP) enables shipowners and operators to fuel confidently across the globe. Compliant with ISO 8217 and encompassing conventional fuels, biofuels, methanol, and additional options, MFTP identifies and addresses fuel-related risks prior to any cause or effect to your operations.
With ISO/IEC 17025-accredited laboratories located in Singapore, Greece, and China, we deliver prompt and reliable results. From SOLAS to MARPOL, our MFTP ensures your fleet remains compliant, efficient—and one step ahead.
Why choose Maritec-Naias?
- 35+ years of experience in global marine fuel testing
- 60,000+ samples tested yearly for 10,000+ vessels worldwide
- 24-48 hours reporting turnaround time, faster than industry standards
- Labs in Singapore, Greece, and China for fast global coverage
- P&I Club recommended
- Complimentary, digitalised sample collection system with complimentary tamper proof sampling kits
- Superior in-house diagnostic platforms for detailed trend analysis
- In-built early warning systems & bunker alerts to safeguard our client’s interests
- Online Client Portal for real-time access to reports, sample tracking, historical data analysis and more
- Experienced Customer Service Executives dedicated to individual customer
- Superior technical support to provide real-time advisory services
- For BioFuels and other Alternative Fuels, we offer:
- Expertly designed programmes, which addresses quality issues arising from various types of Bio-blends, created by blending 100% Bio-diesel (often referred to as FAME) with traditional marine fuels
- Customisable testing to monitor BioFuel degradation issues on compatibility, stability & acidity during storage
- In-depth R&D on FAME feedstocks & blending variations for optimal monitoring of BioFuel
- Superior insights from onboard experience and global BioFuel sample analysis for accurate risk mitigation
- Training and consultancy on fuel transition and emissions compliance mechanisms
Would you like to learn more about out services? Get in contact
Other services and
solutions for a greener
Maritime Future
Fuel Oil Enhanced Analysis for Contaminants
Advanced Fuel Oil Screening Technology - Gas Chromatography - Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) Testing - for early detection of contaminants & root cause analysis
Throughout the years, the Maritime industry has faced the ongoing challenge of bunker contamination. Given the intricate nature of the bunker supply chain, a diverse array of chemicals, materials, and contaminants from multiple sources can infiltrate the marine fuel supply chain. Consequently, the crucial need to closely monitor fuel quality persists as a vital requirement to protect vessel health.
We highly advise conducting routine, cost-efficient, and rapid Gas Chromatography – Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) Screening Tests for all Residual bunker fuel samples. Our GC-MS Screening Tests qualitatively detect 16 chemical compounds that are frequently present in marine bunker fuel. These compounds encompass four distinct categories – Chlorinated Organic Compounds (COCs), Phenol, Alcohol, and Reactive Hydrocarbons.
In addition, our expertly tailored & designed Enhanced Analysis packages, offer Quantitative 16 to 62 Compounds testing using latest ASTM D7845, Headspace, Solid Phase Extraction (SPE) and Direct Liquid Injection (DLI) techniques, enabling our customers to identify the root cause with unmatched precision for genuinely effective intervention.
Why choose Maritec-Naias?
- Speed of report delivery, supported by strategically located labs in Singapore, Greece & China
- Comprehensive technical advisory for optimal testing and proper management of fuels
- Range of GC-MS packages tailored to cater to varied needs and budgets
- Advanced technology and techniques for superior diagnosis
- Trusted support and evidence in processing of claims against off-spec fuel as per Clause 5 of ISO 8217
- In-house testing, technical support and independent witness consultancy all available under one laboratory roof
Would you like to learn more about out services? Get in contact
Other services and
solutions for a greener
Maritime Future
Fuel System Performance Check
Comprehensive Fuel System Check (FSC) to identify and avoid the build-up of Catalytic fines (‘cat fines’)
Preventing the buildup of cat fines is crucial to avoid clogging vessel engines. The accumulation of these particles can lead to damage in various engine components, including the fuel pump, plungers, engine liner, piston rings, and other mechanical parts.
When a vessel receives fuels with a cat fines concentration of more than 30 ppm, a FSC should be carried out to ensure that the separation efficiency is up to standard. This will help the engineers ascertain whether the fuel treatment systems on-board can reduce the cat fines content to a safe level.
Our comprehensive FSC services helps monitor the onboard fuel treatment plant by analysing FSC samples taken at locations close to the fuel entry and exit points of the separators, as well as before the engine’s fuel inlet.
Why choose Maritec-Naias?
- Global surveyor network and 35+ years maritime service industry experience
- Strong technical advisory service with extensive fuel data library to support
- Dedicated technical team to assist with abnormality handling and real-time advisory support, combined with extended testing for root cause analysis
- Maritec-Naias manages 60,000+ fuel oil sample tests on an annual basis worldwide with fast TAT
- Test reports recognised by all major certification bodies and classification societies
Would you like to learn more about out services? Get in contact
Other services and
solutions for a greener
Maritime Future
Lube Oil Testing Services & Solutions
Ensuring engine efficiency and preventive maintenance
Our comprehensive services include Lubricant Oil (LO) Testing, Cylinder Oil Drain Analysis (CODA), Grease Analysis and Sweep Testing – all part of our LO Testing Programme designed to assist our customers to ensure utmost protection of their vessel’s engine health.
Building on Naias Laboratories’ established reputation in Europe and Maritec’s global presence, we now offer a broader and more robust oil condition monitoring services & solutions. Our goal is to support customers in optimising machinery performance and extending lubricant life through reliable, data-driven insights.
Over time, lubricating oils naturally degrade and accumulate contaminants such as oxidation residues, metal particles, fuel traces, water, and coolant. Regular analysis helps identify early signs of engine stress or inefficiency, enabling proactive maintenance and informed decisions on oil replacement to ensure optimal machinery performance.
CODA
NAIAS LABS offers Cylinder Oil Drain Analysis (CODA) for large marine two-stroke engines, providing detailed insights into engine condition and guidance on monitoring and maintenance per OEM recommendations.
Why choose Maritec-Naias?
- A leader in the field with 70,000+ samples tested annually
- 48-hour turnaround – faster than the industry standard
- Real-time & reactive technical and customer support
- Customised reports with clear, easy to read insights into machinery condition
- In-house / non-supplier lab testing service providing independent and impartial insights
- Ease of logistics through complimentary dispatch of Fuel Oil and LO samples delivered to lab together
- Superior CODA testing with Fuel System Check (FSC) provides exceptional condition assessment & safety
Would you like to learn more about out services? Get in contact
Other services and
solutions for a greener
Maritime Future
Bunker Quantity Survey (BQS)
Trusted Bunker Quantity Survey (BQS) services valued by bunker purchasers worldwide
Maritec-Naias Bunker Quantity Survey Services enhances our core business in fuel testing. By on-board verification of bunker quantity and laboratory testing for quality of bunkered fuels, we protect the interests of bunker buyers all over the world, especially in cases of disputes. Our team possesses the experience and qualifications necessary to assist in dispute resolution cases, with the goal of achieving an amicable settlement of claims.
The credibility, integrity, and impartiality of our BQS network have established a trusted and reputable service that is highly valued by bunker purchasers globally.
In addition to conventional BQS services, our survey department, accredited by ISO/IEC 17020, also offers extensive inspection services such as:
- ROB Survey
- On/Off Hire Survey
- Bunker Audit Survey
- Bunker Dispute Investigation Survey
- Sludge Survey
- Bunker Tank Sampling Survey
- General Condition Survey
Why choose Maritec-Naias?
- Trusted by 5,000+ vessels worldwide
- 24/7 global coverage with main stations located at key bunkering hubs
- BQS services include complimentary full ROB Survey
- We oversee the entire custody transfer of bunker nomination and sampling with a sharp vigilance for malpractices
- We accurately measure and calculate the quantity on vessel and barge with unofficial adjustments reported
- Extensive expertise in Mass Flow Meter (MFM) monitoring with attention to potential interference on measurement accuracy
- Independent verifiers acting in bunker purchasers best interest
Maritec-Naias Global BQS Network
BQS services located in Argentina, Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, China, Cyprus, Egypt, Ghana, Gibraltar, Greece, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Malta, Netherlands, Panama, Peru, Singapore, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Taiwan, Thailand, UAE, United States, Vietnam.
Would you like to learn more about out services? Get in contact
Other services and
solutions for a greener
Maritime Future
Cargo Quantity Survey
For sensitive liquid & dry cargoes requiring precision and care
Maritec-Naias, accredited under ISO 17020, with a team of IFIA certified surveyors, offers professional and reliable cargo quantity surveys. With a base in Athens and Thessaloniki, we extend our services to refineries, vessels and maritime ports & hubs internationally. Our quantity cargo surveys can also be complemented by our ISO 17020 accredited analytical quality testing.
Our services include:
- Wet Cargo Quantity Surveys: Wet cargo—such as crude oil, petroleum products, chemicals, and edible oils—demands meticulous handling and accurate measurement. Our expert surveyors ensure every drop is accounted for.
- Pre-loading & Post-discharge Surveys: Accurate tank gauging and volume calculations to verify cargo quantities.
- Sampling & Laboratory Coordination: Representative sampling for quality assurance and compliance.
- Loss Control & Discrepancy Investigation: Identify and resolve quantity variances between load and discharge ports.
- Independent Reporting: Transparent, timely, and internationally recognized survey reports.
- Dry Cargo Quantity Surveys: Independent verification of dry bulk cargo quantities—protecting your interests from loading to discharge.
- Pre-loading & Post-discharge Surveys: Independent verification of cargo volumes at load and discharge ports.
- Tank Gauging & Ullage Calculations: Accurate measurement using industry-standard methods and calibrated equipment.
- Sampling & Quality Checks: Representative sampling for lab analysis and quality assurance.
- Loss Control & Discrepancy Resolution: Investigating quantity variances and ensuring accountability.
- Real-time Reporting: Timely, detailed reports with photographic evidence and digital signatures.
Why choose Maritec-Naias?
- Highly experienced and trained professionals
- One-stop service provider, with capability to provide analytical quality testing, if required
- In-house labs for faster reporting
- Independent testing laboratories for unbiased insights
Would you like to learn more about out services? Get in contact
Other services and
solutions for a greener
Maritime Future
NDT & UTM Services
Third party and independent Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) & Ultrasonic Thickness Measurement (UTM) services available in Singapore
Through our business arm of Poly NDT Pte Ltd, established in 1975, we specialise in delivering highly reputable, accredited and professional Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) and Ultrasonic Thickness Measurement (UTM) services in Singapore to ensure the integrity, safety, and compliance of our clients assets — without causing damage or downtime.
With decades of honed experience, our team possesses the know-how and unique capabilities to tailor services as per our client’s requirements, while ensuring a stringent Code of Practice.
Our key services & solutions include:
- Ultrasonic Testing (UT) – a family of NDT techniques based on the propagation of ultrasonic waves in the object or material tested to detect flaws in materials & welds.
- Magnetic Particle Inspections (MPI) – an NDT method where a magnetic field detects surface, shallow sub-surfaces & discontinuities in ferromagnetic materials & welds.
- Radiography Testing (RT) – an NDT or Examination method for examining the internal structure of any component & welds to determine its integrity.
- Dye Penetrant Inspections (DP) / Liquid Penetrate Inspection (LPI) / Penetrant Testing (PT) – a widely applied low-cost method used to check surface breaking defects in all non-porous materials (metals, plastics, or ceramics) & welds.
- Eddy-current Testing (ET / ECT) – one of many electromagnetic testing methods used in NDT, which uses electromagnetic induction to detect and characterise surface and sub-surface flaws in conductive materials & welds.
- Hardness Testing (HT) – a method used to measure a material’s resistance to permanent deformation at its surface, by pressing a harder material into it.
- Ultrasonic Thickness Measurement (UTM) – using high-frequency sound waves to penetrate material. When the waves encounter an interface (such as back wall or corrosion), they reflect back. The time taken for the waves to travel through the material and return is measured to calculate the thickness.
Why choose Maritec-Naias?
- Decades of trusted experience, backed by professionalism and an impeccable reputation
- One of the select few companies in Singapore to be approved to conduct work for the Singapore Navy & US Navy
- Technicians trained at accredited institutes in Singapore and CSWIP (UK)
- SAC SINGLAS & an ISO 9001 certified company
- Teams consist of ASNT level III engineers authorised to train and qualify NDT technicians
- Approved to carry out ultrasonic ship hull inspections and other NDT by 11 major Classification Societies, namely, LR, ABS, NK, BV, DNV, RINA, CR, CCS, SCM, IRS & KR
- Consultancy & advisory services aimed at providing best-fit solutions
Would you like to learn more about out services? Get in contact
Other services and
solutions for a greener
Maritime Future
Fire Fighting Foam Analysis
Expert analysis in adherence with IMO regulations to protect crew safety & minimise environmental impact
The International Maritime Organisation (IMO) has amended the SOLAS Convention and High-Speed Craft (HSC) Codes to ban the use and carriage of firefighting foams containing perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS) above 10 mg/kg, starting 01 January 2026. This requirement applies to both new and existing ships and crafts.
New ship requirements:
- Ships and crafts constructed on or after 01 January 2026 are to comply with the new requirements at the time of delivery.
Existing ship requirements:
- Existing ships and crafts are to comply with the new requirements no later than the date of the ‘first survey’ on or after 01 January 2026. The term ‘first survey’ means the first annual survey, the first periodical survey, or the first renewal survey, whichever is due first after 01 January 2026.
The core reason behind the prohibition is that PFOS belongs to the larger family of PFAS (Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), commonly referred to as “forever chemicals”. It is persistent, bioaccumulative, and toxic, with significant environmental and health risks. Additionally, PFOS has been identified for a worldwide phase-out in accordance with the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants.
Shipowners, Operators, and Masters must be actively vigilant in adhering to the prohibition by securing a manufacturer’s declaration or laboratory test report promptly to verify the concentrate of any existing foam onboard, and thereafter, complies with the new requirements. If any fire-fighting media containing PFOS is detected onboard, prompt action is required to remove or replace the material by the deadline or before the date of the ‘first survey’ after 01 January 2026.
For customers unable to obtain a declaration from the manufacturer of existing foam onboard, Maritec-Naias’s analyse for PFOS can be conducted alongside routine analysis for other parameters.
Testing Frequency & Parameters as per IMO guidelines:
To ensure foam concentrate remains effective and has not degraded due to age, contamination, or environmental exposure, it must be periodically tested according to IMO guidelines (MSC/Circ.670 for High-Expansion foam concentrate and MSC.1/Circ.1312 for Low-Expansion foam concentrate). The first periodic test must be performed not more than 3 years after the foam concentrate has been supplied to the ship, and after that, every year. Parameters for testing include expansion ratio, drainage time, pH, density, and fire performance criteria. Chemical stability test for protein-based alcohol-resistant foam concentrates, shall be performed prior to the delivery of the ship and annually thereafter.
The fire protection system shall be maintained and inspected regularly as per MSC.1/Circ.1432. For the five-year service, Maritec-Naias performs testing of the foam solution to confirm that the mixing ration tolerance is within the applicable limits
To support our customer’s in adherence with latest IMO regulatory requirements, Maritec-Naias offers Fire Fighting Foam Analysis services, which include:
- PFOS Concentrate Analysis for existing foam onboard (incase stakeholders are unable to obtain manufacturer’s declaration)
- Annual/Periodical Analysis (Foam Concentrate)
- Annual/Periodical Analysis (Alcohol-Resistant Foam Concentrate)
- Mixed Produced Foam Analysis (5 yearly)
- PFAS (20 analyte) Analysis includes PFOS, PFOA & PHFxS
Why choose Maritec-Naias?
- Rapid TAT for analysis and report delivery
- ISO 17025 Accredited Testing
- Tailored testing service packages to suit customers varied needs and budgets
- Longstanding experience in testing for adherence to maritime regulatory requirements
Would you like to learn more about out services? Get in contact