The state-run Korea Research Institute of Ships and Ocean Engineering (KRISO) is studying developing core technologies for small modular reactor (SMR)-powered ships and floating SMR power generation platforms in a four year R&D program.
KRISO said yesterday it will develop core technologies for SMR-powered ships, including a conceptual design of an SMR-powered ship and the development of a framework for integrated ship-nuclear power safety analysis, as well as the design of thrusters and the conceptual design of propulsion systems for SMR-powered ships.
In addition, KRISO will design a floating SMR power generation platform.
South Korean companies are showing an interest in nuclear propulsion. The country’s largest shipbuilder is a founding member of the recently founded Nuclear Energy Maritime Organization (NEMO), which aims to assist nuclear and maritime regulators in the development of appropriate standards and rules for the deployment, operation and decommissioning of floating nuclear power.
