Suzuki Motor Corporation opens its patents for microplastic collection devices on outboard motors. 34 patents, including applications that have not yet been granted, are now available licence-free. The decision marks a change in strategy: for the first time in the company's history, Suzuki is waiving licence fees for its own technology. The move is aimed at accelerating the spread of collection technology and encouraging more manufacturers to integrate it into their products. Suzuki has been installing the device as standard in selected models since July 2022. The technology uses the engine's cooling system to collect microplastics near the water surface while driving. Five models - DF140BG, DF115BG, DF140B, DF115B and DF100C - are currently equipped with the collection device. Suzuki received the first patent in November 2021, followed by others for outboard engines worldwide.
Functional principle of the collection technology
The patents describe a system that is integrated into the cooling water circuit of the outboard motor. While travelling, the engine pumps in water for cooling. The collection device is located in the cooling water channel behind the engine cooling system and filters microplastics from the water flowing through. The existing cooling function remains fully intact. A parallel bypass channel prevents performance losses if the filter is blocked. The system diverts the water flow if the flow rate decreases. Special problem: Under certain operating conditions, cooling water can flow back into the channel and push collected particles back up again. The improved design prevents microplastics from returning to the sea through the bypass channel. The technology works without additional energy requirements and utilises only the existing water flow.
Background to the release
Plastic waste in the oceans is becoming a global environmental problem. Plastics decompose in nature to form microplastics, which are absorbed by marine life and pollute ecosystems. Suzuki developed the collection technology as a direct response to this development. The more boats equipped with the technology, the greater the effect on the marine environment. The patent approval is intended to encourage manufacturers worldwide to develop similar systems or adopt Suzuki's technology. Contact: micp-patents@hhq.suzuki.co.jp.
Ralf Marquard
Deputy Editor in Chief BOOTE
