French liquefied natural gas (LNG) containment system specialist, Gaztransport & Technigaz (GTT) developed and completed the testing phase of its new technology named LNG Brick. 

This solution, comprising a Mark III membrane system, is delivered as a block ready to be installed into the ship structure, GTT said in a statement.

LNG Brick provides LNG fuel tank solutions for capacities ranging between 1,000 and 3,000 cubic meters. It will also permit the construction of the LNG Brick tank elsewhere than at the shipyard which will integrate it into an LNG-propelled vessel.

The technology will also enable an easier management of boil-off for small volumes thanks to its ability to maintain a higher pressure than traditional membrane tanks, GTT said.

GTT has entrusted Dongsung FineTec, a South Korean company specializing in the production of insulation panels used for GTT’s technologies, with the creation of a prototype.

The tests, carried out under cryogenic conditions, have demonstrated the satisfactory performance of this new system.

Speaking of the new technology, Philippe Berterottière, chairman and CEO of GTT, said, “given the current economic environment and LNG price levels, it seems to us to be an appropriate answer to address many of our customers’ concerns.”