Advanced Nuclear Process Heat Concepts and Applications

This paper presents a summary of a screening study to select the most advantageous applications for nuclear process heat. The review is focused on the application of the Pebble Bed Modular Reactor (PBMR) technology adapted for process heat applications. This technology is unique in its smaller modular size and ability to deliver high temperature process heat at conditions that allow higher value applications. The implementation of projects for nuclear process heat and hydrogen production will require collaboration between nuclear power plant operators and process plant owners who will benefit from lower costs of heat delivery. Heat and hydrogen from nuclear water splitting can be used to displace expensive fuels, extend carbon utilization for products and reduce CO₂ emissions and other environmental impacts.