Marine fuels with higher aromatic characteristics will emit higher levels of black carbon. Paraffinic fuels have higher energy values and improved ignition and combustion profiles which is lowering level of emission.
Black carbon is emitted from gas and diesel engines and is a global environmental problem that has negative implications for both human health and our climate. Inhalation of black carbon is associated with health problems including respiratory and cardiovascular disease, cancer, and even birth defects. Black carbon also contributes to climate change causing changes in patterns of rain and clouds. As black carbon deposits in the Arctic, the particles cover the snow and ice, decreasing the Earth’s ability to reflect the warming rays of the sun, while absorbing heat and hastening melt (EPA: United States Environmental Protection Agency).