Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute and Samsung Heavy Industries Secure Approval for Nuclear-Powered LNG Shipping Initiative
In a significant leap toward the future of maritime energy, the Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute (KAERI) and Samsung Heavy Industries (SHI) have secured Approval in Principle (AIP) for a pioneering LNG carrier powered by a small modular molten salt reactor (MSR). This landmark announcement was made during Gastech 2025 in Milan, Italy, an influential gathering that showcases innovations in gas and energy technologies.
The AIP, granted by the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) alongside certification from the Liberian flag state, affirms that the vessel's design adheres to rigorous international safety and technical standards. The conceptual design, created collaboratively by KAERI and SHI, integrates advanced nuclear technology as a propulsion alternative, marking a noteworthy evolution in commercial shipping.
The molten salt reactor operates using a mixture of molten salt and nuclear fuel, presenting an attractive option due to its high safety profile and impressive energy efficiency compared to traditional systems. With a thermal capacity of 100 megawatts, this innovative reactor is designed to run throughout the vessel's operational life without necessitating fuel replacement—a breakthrough that promises to significantly reduce operating costs and enhance efficiency for long-haul shipping.
The Gastech event, held from September 9 to 12, gathered global leaders from shipbuilding, shipping, and classification societies, providing an international platform for the unveiling of future energy and maritime technologies. As lead institutions in the molten salt reactor source and innovation technology development project, KAERI and SHI are advancing nuclear innovation for marine applications with support from South Korea’s Ministry of Science and ICT, as well as the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries, aiming to finalize the conceptual design of the marine MSR by 2026.
In October 2024, ABS will release a detailed study assessing the feasibility and safety implications of integrating small modular reactors into standard LNG carriers, further advancing the dialogue on nuclear propulsion in commercial maritime operations. This initiative represents a bold step towards a more sustainable and efficient future in maritime energy, with the potential to reshape how vessels are powered across the globe.
