Classification society ABS and the Korea Research Institute of Ships and Ocean Engineering (KRISO) have teamed up to work on advancing commercial small modular reactor (SMR)-powered ships and floating SMR power generation platforms.
As disclosed, ABS will provide an analysis of applicable regulatory guidelines and international standards for the design of SMR-powered ships.
Meanwhile, KRISO will develop core technologies for SMR-powered ships, including conceptual designs for the vessel and propulsion systems as well as the development of a framework for integrated ship, nuclear power safety analysis.
In addition, KRISO will design a floating SMR power generation platform, a nuclear power plant on the sea, and a commercialization model that can supply stable power to island areas in the future.
“Through this joint research with ABS, we will lead the development of future eco-friendly marine technology and establish global standards for the commercialization of SMRs in the marine sector and will lead the global market for nuclear-powered ships in the future,” said Keyyong Hong , President of KRISO.
“ABS is taking a leading role in the support of nuclear power projects in the maritime industry through our knowledge of international regulations and development of Class-related related safety requirements. We are proud to apply our experience to these research projects with KRISO. With the increased focus on zero-carbon emissions, modern nuclear technologies offer the potential for decarbonization in many areas of the sector,” stated Patrick Ryan , ABS Senior Vice President and Chief Technology Officer.
Nuclear energy has been providing zero-emission power for naval and government vessels for more than six decades.
With the increased focus on zero-carbon emissions in the maritime industry and the development of small-scale modular nuclear reactors, nuclear-powered merchant ships could offer the potential for the decarbonization of the global fleet.
However, for nuclear power to become a viable solution for marine applications, there are many issues to be resolved, including further technology development and a means to demonstrate the suitability of nuclear power.
Last year, Herbert Engineering Corp. (HEC), on behalf of ABS, conducted a study on how the incorporation of nuclear propulsion would impact the design, operation, and emission profile of two ship types, a 14,000 TEU container vessel, and a 157,000 dwt Suezmax tanker.
The study showed that the adoption of advanced nuclear reactors onboard a 14,000 TEU containership would eliminate the need to refuel the vessel during its entire 25-year lifespan.
ABS supports the industry’s decarbonization journey through joint development projects involving nuclear propulsion systems.
These also include a project focused on integrated thermal-electric energy management of an all-electric ship with advanced nuclear reactors with the University of Texas at Dallas and a contract with the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to research barriers to demonstration projects and the adoption of advanced nuclear propulsion on commercial vessels.