(www.MaritimeCyprus.com) To support the global transition toward zero-emission shipping, Classification Society ClassNK has officially published the Guidelines for Liquefied Hydrogen Carriers (Edition 3.1) . This comprehensive update aligns ClassNK’s classification rules with the latest international safety frameworks, incorporating the Revised Interim Recommendations for Carriage of Liquefied Hydrogen in Bulk adopted at the 111th session of the IMO Maritime Safety Committee ( MSC 111 ). By enhancing technical requirements for material selection, welding practices, and innovative cargo containment systems, Edition 3.1 provides shipyards, naval architects, shipowners, and maritime stakeholders with a clear roadmap to streamline vessel design, safety assessments, and regulatory approvals. Background: Scaling Hydrogen Transportation for Decarbonization As the maritime sector accelerates efforts to achieve net-zero carbon emissions, hydrogen has emerged as a crucial energy carrier. To support large-scale international supply chains, the development of specialized liquefied hydrogen carriers is advancing rapidly around the globe. Recent technological advancements have led to increasingly diverse vessel designs, including the integration of membrane-type cargo containment systems . To ensure safe transport of cryogenic liquid hydrogen at -253°C , the IMO Maritime Safety Committee updated its safety guidelines at MSC 111, establishing new protocols for next-generation containment concepts. ClassNK’s Edition 3.1 incorporates these IMO benchmarks alongside operational data, real-world lessons from demonstration vessels, and technical insights from ongoing R&D projects. Stay informed with MaritimeCyprus Join 28,500+ maritime professionals receiving maritime news, safety insights and industry updates. Daily Weekly Subscribe free Leave this field empty By clicking Subscribe free, you agree to receive the MaritimeCyprus newsletter. You can unsubscribe at any time. Privacy Po