OBO carrier

[mbhanoo]

We intend to convert a panamax bulk carrier to a dedicated phosphoric acid carrier, which would carry phosphoric acid in alternate holds(1,3,5,7 holds). For better utilisation of the vessel, we propose to carry solid cargo in 2,4,6 holds. Is it required to have a cofferdam between chemical tank and cargo hold? Can anybody please clarify.

[CHALKIAS]

Phosphates is one of the most usual cargoes that bulk carriers carry. I don't think that the phosphoric acid is considered a dangerous good. You should check the IMO IMDG code. We designed a bulk carrier that can carry phosphates and we did not use cofferdams between the cargo holds.

[mbhanoo]

Thank you. I checked in IMDG code as well as IBC code. Since phosphoric acid is a type 3 chemical, it does not require even double bottom & double hull. IBC code says cofferdam is required if it reacts in a hazardous manner with other cargoes in the adjacent hold.

[Naviguesser]

In the future you can also look at the Chemical Data Guide, that may be helpful.