LCO₂ Carrier Receives ClassNK Approval in Principle
ClassNK has granted an Approval in Principle (AiP) for a 42,000 m³ liquefied CO₂ carrier, a design developed collaboratively by several leading companies, including Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha, Ltd. (“K” LINE), Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. (MOL), Nihon Shipyard Co., Ltd. (NSY), Nippon Yusen Kabushiki Kaisha (NYK Line), MILES Co., Ltd., and Mitsubishi Shipbuilding Co., Ltd. The certificate was presented during a ceremony at Gastech2026 in Bangkok, Thailand.
As global Carbon Dioxide Capture and Storage (CCS) initiatives progress, there is an anticipated increase in the need for liquefied CO₂ carriers to transport captured CO₂ to storage locations. The issuance of this AiP represents a significant move towards standardizing the hull designs essential for producing a sufficient fleet of these carriers to meet growing demand.
For this design, ClassNK conducted a thorough review, adhering to Part N of its ‘Rules and Guidance for the Survey and Construction of Steel Ships,’ which includes the IGC Code. This international code outlines safety requirements for vessels transporting liquefied gases like CO₂ and LNG. The AiP was issued after confirming compliance with all necessary standards and conducting a risk assessment via HAZID.
ClassNK remains committed to fostering the development of innovative technologies and their integration into society through rigorous safety assessments and related efforts.
