ABS and KRISO join forces on nuclear-powered ships

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.