Balfour Beatty and ICL adopt engine carbon clean technology

Balfour Beatty and ICL adopt engine carbon clean technology

Balfour Beatty and ICL embrace engine carbon clean technology. This innovative approach significantly cuts emissions and boosts engine efficiency. Following successful trials, Balfour Beatty achieved a 15.79% reduction in emissions, while ICL realised a 7% decrease. Both companies plan widespread implementation to enhance sustainability.


Balfour Beatty and Industrial Chemicals Limited (ICL) have endorsed the adoption of ‘engine carbon clean’ (ECC) technology after successful trials demonstrated its efficacy in reducing carbon emissions and enhancing engine performance. This decision marks a significant step towards sustainable operations within their respective industries.

The ECC technology employs a patented on-demand hydrogen generator service, which cleans combustion engines by eliminating carbon deposits. Oxyhydrogen gas is introduced into the engine’s air intake, allowing the engine to draw in what is required. This process significantly improves fuel efficiency and reduces harmful emissions, including CO₂, CO, NOx, and N₂O.

Balfour Beatty, a prominent international infrastructure group, pioneered the application of this technology on a Plasser & Theuer compact tamper for rail-mounted plant as part of its strategy to mitigate Scope 1 emissions. The trial, designed to replicate a full year of operation in line with standard maintenance cycles, resulted in a 15.79% reduction in emissions. The company now intends to expand the use of ECC technology across its entire tamper fleet.

ICL, a leading UK chemical manufacturing and distribution company, conducted empirical testing of the ECC system at the Millbrook Proving Ground in Bedford. The trials revealed substantial improvements in emissions reduction and fuel efficiency. Consequently, ICL tested the technology on one-third of its 90-vehicle fleet located in West Thurrock, Essex. The company was pleased to report over a 7% reduction in emissions and fuel costs, prompting plans to implement the technology across its national operations.

The adoption of ECC technology by these industry leaders underscores the growing emphasis on sustainability and operational efficiency. As businesses continue to seek innovative solutions to reduce their environmental impact, the widespread implementation of such technologies could significantly contribute to achieving broader carbon reduction goals.


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