University of Zagreb

The Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Naval Architecture (UNIZAG FSB), University of Zagreb, founded in 1919, is Croatia’s leading institution in mechanical engineering, naval architecture, aeronautical engineering, and, more recently, mechatronics and robotics. UNIZAG FSB delivers excellence in engineering education, preparing future professionals for high-technology industries requiring broad multidisciplinary knowledge. The Faculty combines strong theoretical foundations taught by highly qualified academic staff across 14 departments and 42 chairs with extensive practical training gained in 54 laboratories and through intensive cooperation with industry. With around 500 employees and over 2,500 students, UNIZAG FSB offers four bachelor’s and master’s programmes in mechanical engineering, naval architecture, aeronautical engineering, and mechatronics and robotics. These programmes ensure robust theoretical and practical competencies, enabling graduates to build successful careers in established sectors and emerging advanced fields. UNIZAG FSB’s doctoral programme reinforces research capacity and industry collaboration. Its international partnerships, innovation activities, and a dedicated Technology Transfer Centre support sustainable development, effective knowledge transfer, and strong international competitiveness.

UNIZAG FSB decided to participate in IsoPROPEL because the project aligns directly with its strategic priorities in sustainable maritime and energy systems, green propulsion, and advanced engineering research. As a national leader in mechanical and naval engineering, UNIZAG FSB actively advances decarbonisation technologies for transport, including renewable fuels, fuel cells, hybrid energy systems, and techno-economic assessments. IsoPROPEL offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the development of a novel RFNBO fuel and its direct fuel-cell utilisation pathway, fully matching our long-term research agenda on alternative fuels and zero-carbon propulsion in shipping and other sectors. The Faculty’s established expertise in maritime decarbonisation, alternative propulsion concepts, and environmental and techno-economic evaluation supports the project’s system-level analysis, use-case validation and sustainability assessment. Participation strengthens our role in EU research networks, builds capacity for next-generation fuel technologies, and enhances collaboration with world-class research organisations and industry. IsoPROPEL also fits UNIZAG FSB’s educational mission by providing cutting-edge research opportunities for young scientists, strengthening knowledge transfer into Croatian industry, and accelerating uptake of sustainable propulsion concepts. Engagement in this project supports the Faculty’s vision of contributing to carbon-neutral transport solutions and reinforces its position as a regional hub for innovation in green maritime and energy technologies.

UNIZAG FSB will contribute to the development and assessment of future applications of isopropanol-based energy systems, with particular attention to transport and maritime use cases. Our activities include analysing requirements for integrating the new fuel and direct fuel-cell technology into real operational environments, evaluating energy efficiency, environmental impact and economic performance, and identifying barriers and optimisation pathways for deployment. We will support modelling, simulation and validation of propulsion concepts, contribute to sustainability assessments, and help shape recommendations for industry and policy stakeholders. UNIZAG FSB will also facilitate knowledge exchange and strengthen links between research, education and industrial implementation.