Samsung Heavy Industries Secures Approval for Innovative Molten Salt Reactor-Powered LNG Carrier
Samsung Heavy Industries (SHI) has received an Approval in Principle (AIP) for its 174,000 m³ liquefied natural gas carrier powered by a molten salt reactor (MSR), developed in collaboration with the Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute (KAERI). The announcement was made during Gastech 2025 in Milan. The MSR technology enhances stability and energy efficiency. SHI also achieved multiple technical certifications for eco-friendly technologies, including designs for liquefied hydrogen carriers and wind-assisted LNG carriers. Additionally, SHI partnered with Eastern Pacific Shipping to implement a digital twin technology for ship lifecycle management.
Theia Market Signal Identification - AI AssistedSamsung Heavy Industries (SHI) has made significant strides in the maritime energy sector, recently securing an Approval in Principle (AIP) for its innovative liquefied natural gas (LNG) carrier, which boasts a molten salt reactor (MSR) as its power source. This development, a collaboration between SHI and the Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute (KAERI), was unveiled during the Gastech 2025 conference held in Milan from September 9 to 12.
The MSR technology, which employs a liquid mixture of molten salt as reactor fuel and coolant, promises to enhance both stability and energy efficiency in LNG transportation. In parallel, SHI is also obtaining technical certifications from the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) and the Liberian flag state for this groundbreaking vessel.
At Gastech, SHI showcased its commitment to sustainability by receiving various technical certifications for its eco-friendly digital integration technologies. Among these is the certification from DNV for an 80,000 m³ liquefied hydrogen carrier design, optimized to minimize size and prevent heat influx. Furthermore, Lloyd's Register has certified SHI's LNG carrier equipped with wind-assisted propulsion, reflecting the industry's shift towards greener alternatives.
In another notable achievement, five global classification societies granted approval for SHI's SNAP Wind Float, a newly designed floating offshore wind substructure capable of supporting 15 MW wind turbines. This innovative structure incorporates a modular brace system between its columns, significantly reducing construction time for offshore wind installations.
Additionally, SHI has entered into a partnership with Singapore-based Eastern Pacific Shipping (EPS) to implement its advanced digital twin technology for ship lifecycle management. This solution allows for real-time performance monitoring and predictive preservation of critical ship equipment, marking a significant advancement in maritime operational efficiency. As SHI continues to lead in maritime innovation, its efforts reflect a broader trend towards sustainable and efficient energy solutions in the industry.
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