The American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) has taken a leading role in maritime decarbonisation by awarding an approval in principle (AIP) for a next-generation nuclear propulsion design. Developed by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology Maritime Consortium, the system integrates a micro-scale nuclear reactor into commercial cargo vessels.
ABS evaluated the reactor-to-machinery interface against strict class requirements. The design utilises a synthetic fluid to transfer heat from the core, focusing on thermal outputs of 10 to 20MW. Operating at near-atmospheric pressure, it allows for lighter reactor vessels and modular fabrication.
Concurrently, ABS introduced its industry-first Nuclear-Ready Notation framework through a dedicated applications guide to assist owners in preparing marine assets for future conversions. These key regulatory milestones align with expanding global interest in small modular reactors, further supported by the International Atomic Energy Agency's upcoming ATLAS initiative.
Track more details on nuclear power developments directly on EICDataStream.