ABS goes nuclear with zero-emission LNG ship plans

In Texas, the American Bureau of Shipping has published a groundbreaking report in Houston, exploring nuclear propulsion for liquefied natural gas carriers through a model using a high-temperature gas-cooled reactor. This study, conducted with Herbert Engineering Corporation, evaluated a 145,000m³ LNG carrier design, showcasing nuclear technology’s potential to provide faster transit speeds and zero-emission operations while eliminating the need for conventional fuel refueling.

ABS’s research focuses on safety, energy management, and design challenges, noting that nuclear reactors would need replacement every six years. Patrick Ryan, ABS’s Chief Technology Officer, highlighted the promise of this technology, saying, “This study and the other research we have carried out clearly highlight its significant potential to address not only shipping’s emissions challenge but to deliver a range of other operational advantages to the industry.”

The ABS study suggests the reactor placement would be at the ship’s rear, with batteries replacing traditional fuel tanks in the forward section. The analysis is part of ABS’s wider initiative, following recent rule releases for floating nuclear power plants. The U.S. Department of Energy has also contracted ABS to examine adoption barriers for nuclear technology in commercial shipping, marking a major step in low-carbon maritime solutions.

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