Maritime Sector Delves into Nuclear Propulsion for Vessels as Technological Possibilities Expand

The maritime industry is currently exploring the potential of nuclear fuel as a source of power for commercial ships, taking advantage of technological advancements in this field, according to industry experts.

However, it's important to note that any practical use of nuclear fuel for ships is still a decade away, they emphasized.

Shipping, responsible for nearly 3% of global CO2 emissions, faces mounting pressure from both investors and environmentalists to adopt cleaner fuel alternatives. These alternatives include ammonia, methanol, and wind power.

While nuclear energy has previously powered military submarines and icebreakers, its application to merchant ships has been limited due to cost concerns and hesitancy among insurers. Insurers are cautious about covering ships entering commercial ports without a comprehensive understanding of associated risks.

A recent survey by the International Chamber of Shipping revealed a growing interest in nuclear fuel compared to 2021, with some experts believing that nuclear-powered commercial ships could become viable within the next decade.

The key to this transition lies in the development of smaller, more efficient nuclear reactors designed for ship installation. These reactors consume less nuclear fuel compared to traditional nuclear facilities.

Fincantieri, a prominent Italian shipbuilder, expressed interest in monitoring these technologies' progress, recognizing their potential to significantly contribute to decarbonizing their core business sectors, such as cruise liners, naval ships, and specialized vessels.

RINA, a leading global ship certification company based in Italy, is collaborating with Fincantieri and a nuclear technology firm on a feasibility study related to nuclear fuel use in ships, with a focus on segments like container ships that require substantial power. However, production feasibility is still estimated to be seven to ten years away.

Despite the promising potential of nuclear fuel, the industry faces several challenges, including how to safely integrate small reactors into ships, addressing radiation exposure concerns, ensuring proper safeguards during vessel operation, and establishing ownership and security protocols at sea.

In a separate endeavor, UK-based CORE POWER is working on a prototype advanced molten salt nuclear reactor that employs liquid fuel instead of solid fuel. This design minimizes the risk of coolant-related failures, a common issue with conventional nuclear reactors.

CORE POWER aims to demonstrate the viability of this technology between 2032 and 2035, contributing to a cleaner and greener transition for the shipping industry.

In summary, while nuclear fuel holds promise as a cleaner energy source for ships, its widespread adoption is still a decade away, with various challenges to overcome. Nonetheless, it represents a crucial element in achieving a cleaner, more sustainable future for the maritime industry.

​Source: Reuters (Reporting by Jonathan Saul)