Samsung Heavy Industries has obtained an Approval in Principle (AIP) from the American Bureau of Shipping for a marine nuclear platform integrating two SMART100 modular reactors developed by the Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute (KAERI). This validation is part of the Novel Concept Class Approval process, designed to assess the technical feasibility of new concepts during the initial design phase.
A modular concept designed for adaptability
The certification applies to a floating nuclear model adaptable to various types of small modular reactors (SMRs). The design is based on a compartmentalised structure where each function—reactor, power generation, safety—is isolated in a dedicated module. According to Samsung Heavy Industries, this enables easy replacement of the reactor type by modifying only the relevant compartment.
The design also includes full modularisation of the reactor and safety system within a single sealed container. This setup allows land-based testing before offshore installation, reducing commissioning times. The South Korean company designed the entire floating structure, the multi-barrier containment system, and the integration of onboard nuclear facilities.
Enhanced performance for the SMART100
The SMART100 (System-integrated Modular Advanced Reactor 100) is an upgraded version of the SMART reactor, the world’s first SMR to receive design certification in 2012. SMART100 delivers 365 MW of thermal output and 110 MW of electrical output. It can also supply heat for industrial processes such as seawater desalination.
The design prioritises safety with a fully passive system capable of cooling the reactor without external power. It relies on natural mechanisms such as gravity and fluid density differences to safely shut down and cool the reactor during emergencies.
Commercial objectives and strategic positioning
Samsung Heavy Industries aims to use this floating platform to meet growing offshore energy demand, particularly in remote areas or coastal industrial sites. Ahn Young-kyu, Vice President and Head of Technology Development, noted the importance of this development in opening a new market for marine nuclear power.
KAERI, which adapted the SMART100 for offshore use, sees this milestone as a competitive industrial advantage. Cho Jin-young, Head of the Advanced Nuclear Reactor Research Institute, stated that the certification would help South Korea strengthen its position in the marine nuclear industry.
