It is listed as a Group C cargo only, which would mean that the cargo does not liquefy. However, a Member’s vessel loading cargo described as “chrome ore concentrate” in Turkey recently has shown that this cargo may liquefy. The Master raised concerns as, although the Cargo Declaration gave the cargo as Group C, it also showed TML / moisture content percentages and can testing by the Chief Officer showed moisture.

When independently tested by AH Knight, the material was found to exhibit flow properties. We are also aware of at least two historical incidents where chrome ore liquefied on passage. Thankfully the vessels both made it to port with no loss of life, although these incidents incurred significant general average expenses.