From Smokestacks to Salt Reactors: CORE Power’s Strategy for Emissions-Free Shipping

Nuclear-powered cargo ships might sound like science fiction—but CORE Power is making them a science reality. In this episode of Naked Nuclear, Danielle sits down with Tobi Menzies and Dr. Rory Megginson from CORE Power to explore how molten chloride fast reactors (MCFRs) and floating nuclear power plants (FNPPs) could transform global shipping.We dive into the engineering, the policy, the people—and the programs—needed to build a clean maritime future. From international emissions policy to student research programs to training industry professionals, CORE Power isn’t just designing reactors. They’re designing the entire ecosystem.00:00 – Introduction: From Steam to Salt Reactors03:10 – Why Nuclear Shipping? Global Trade and Climate Math08:30 – What Is a Molten Chloride Fast Reactor (MCFR)?15:00 – Floating Nuclear Power Plants (FNPPs) Explained18:20 – Lava Lamps and Fast Neutrons: MCFR Recap19:30 – Why Shipping Needs a Nuclear Upgrade23:00 – The Academic Resource Program: Supporting Student Research26:10 – Internships and Entry Paths into Nuclear Maritime Careers28:20 – The Convoy Program: Training the Industry Itself34:30 – From Shipowners to Port Authorities: Who Needs to Learn?39:00 – CORE Power’s Vision for 2040 and Beyond42:00 – How to Get Involved with CORE PowerCORE Power website: https://www.corepower.energyAcademic Resource Program info:https://www.corepower.energy/academic-resourcesConvoy Corporate Training Program: https://www.corepower.energy/convoyNuclear Shipping & FNPP Overview: https://www.corepower.energy/maritime-applications/nuclear-propulsion📬 Sign up for CORE Power’s newsletter: https://www.corepower.energy/contact🔗 Resources & Links:IMO 2023 Strategy on Greenhouse Gas Reductions:https://www.imo.org/en/OurWork/Environment/Pages/2023-IMO-Strategy-on-Reduction-of-GHG-Emissions-from-Ships.aspx NEMO Website:https://www.nemo.ngo/missionSome Light Reading on Nuclear Powered Ships:https://world-nuclear.org/information-library/non-power-nuclear-applications/transport/nuclear-powered-ships