The research, titled "Qualitative Risk Analysis on the Use of SMR for Maritime Nuclear Propulsion Using HAZID and HAZOP Methodologies," focuses on the hazards of molten salt reactors (MSRs) and their potential application in naval propulsion. The work is authored by José Miguel Mahía (UDC), Diogo Faustino, and Sandrina Pereira (Escola Superior Náutica Infante D. Henrique).
The findings were presented at the Annual Conference of the International Association of Maritime Universities (IAMU), held in Split, Croatia, from October 7-10, where Sandrina Pereira presented the study.
The study analyzes the potential of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) as an energy alternative for decarbonizing maritime transport, highlighting their reduced size, passive safety systems, and potential for emission reduction. A molten salt reactor (MSR), a fourth-generation (GEN-IV) technology operating at low pressure with passive safety mechanisms, was selected as the case for analysis.
International HAZID and HAZOP methodologies were applied to identify and assess risks, providing a global overview and a detailed analysis of potential operational deviations and their consequences for onboard safety.
“"SMRs represent a technology with the potential to contribute to decarbonizing maritime transport while maintaining the high levels of autonomy, reliability, and safety demanded by the sector."
The research indicates that while MSRs offer opportunities to reduce maritime transport emissions, they also present challenges related to molten salt circulation, residual heat evacuation, reactor reactivity control, and material corrosion. The European Commission and classification societies such as DNV, Lloyd's, Bureau Veritas, and ABS also promote and recognize the potential of SMRs for maritime propulsion.
