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 Reactors
03:10 – Why Nuclear Shipping? Global Trade and Climate Math
08:30 – What Is a Molten Chloride Fast Reactor (MCFR)?
15:00 – Floating Nuclear Power Plants (FNPPs) Explained
18:20 – Lava Lamps and Fast Neutrons: MCFR Recap
19:30 – Why Shipping Needs a Nuclear Upgrade
23:00 – The Academic Resource Program: Supporting Student Research
26:10 – Internships and Entry Paths into Nuclear Maritime Careers
28:20 – The Convoy Program: Training the Industry Itself
34:30 – From Shipowners to Port Authorities: Who Needs to Learn?
39:00 – CORE Power’s Vision for 2040 and Beyond
42:00 – How to Get Involved with CORE Power
CORE Power website:
Academic Resource Program info:
https://www.corepower.energy/academic-resources
Convoy Corporate Training Program: https://www.corepower.energy/convoy
Nuclear 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/mission
Some Light Reading on Nuclear Powered Ships:
https://world-nuclear.org/information-library/non-power-nuclear-applications/transport/nuclear-powered-ships