关键词: 航运脱碳, 船舶核动力, 小型模块化反应堆, 船用小堆, 熔盐反应堆, 钍基燃料

Abstract: With the continuous advancement of decarbonization in the maritime industry, especially after MEPC 80 setting the goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, the application of low-carbon/zero-carbon fuels has become a major focus. The large-scale adoption of energy sources such as liquid ammonia, liquid hydrogen, green methanol, and LNG is gradually accelerating. Nuclear energy, as a clean energy source, is also of increasing interest to the maritime industry. With the development of fourth-generation small modular reactor (SMR) technology, the inherent safety attributes of reactors have been enhanced while reducing the risk of radiation leakage, making nuclear energy a possible propulsion method for large commercial vessels. Starting from the decarbonization needs of the maritime industry, the current use of nuclear energy as a marine propulsion method has been introduced with a focus on the recent technological developments of fourth-generation SMRs. It particularly analyzes their development potential as marine small reactors and proposes key factors that should be considered for their application onboard ships. It focuses on the unique application advantages of molten salt reactors (MSRs), especially thorium-based solid-fueled MSRs, for civilian ships. It also analyzes and prospects the application of SMRs in Suezmax oil tankers, ultra-large container ships, and floating power generation platforms. It can provide theoretical support and references for subsequent engineering applications of nuclear power in ships.

Key words: shipping decarbonization, nuclear power for ships, small modular reactor (SMR), marine small reactor, molten salt reactor (MSR), thorium-based fuel