Are nuclear-powered commercial vessels impractical due to expense, legal barriers, labor shortages, or refueling issues, unlike military nuclear craft? Can thorium reactor designs overcome these obstacles?
The transition to nuclear propulsion is not as simply a matter of cost, as many anticipate. In my experience, the greatest obstacles involve establishing a viable and practical regulatory framework along with overcoming public safety concerns that come with nuclear technology. While the expense and technical modifications for container ships are significant, legal liabilities and the lack of established protocols for waste management further complicate the move. Although thorium reactors are promising due to their potential safety improvements, certifying and integrating such systems into existing maritime guidelines remains a complex process.