Abstract
Hydrogen is becoming increasingly vital as a chemical element in the progress of human civilisation. Hydrogen finds application in the creation of ammonia, the manufacturing of nitrogen-based fertilisers, and a wide range of organic compounds, including methanol and propulsion fuel for space exploration missions. Additionally, there are ongoing experiments in the automotive industry to harness hydrogen-based fuel cells as an alternative power source. In modern technology, multiple methods and strategies for hydrogen production originate from diverse sources, such as fossil fuels, renewable energy, nuclear energy, and more. Generation IV nuclear reactors significantly affect the production of hydrogen. These reactors operate at elevated temperatures, and at these temperatures, heat transfer processes are more efficient for producing significant quantities of hydrogen. Within the realm of hydrogen production, both thermochemical and electrolysis (hybrid) techniques offer promising potential, particularly when integrated with Generation IV nuclear power reactors. This study undertakes a comparative analysis of various nuclear Generation IV reactor types concerning their capacity for substantial hydrogen production techniques while also exploring potential adaptations.
Results
Using the same method as the previous section, we can get the efficiencies of other
Generation IV reactors, which are shown in Table 3.
Table 3. The efficiency of Generation IV reactors [10]
25.4 50.37%) = 49.32%. (5)
Generation IV reactor Thermal efficiency (%)
VHTR >50
GFR 48
SCWR 41–44
MSFR 44–50
LFR 33–40
SFR 39
Conclusion
Innovation within the nuclear sector plays a crucial role in devising long-term solutions
to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and facilitate the transition to a future
characterised by lower CO2 levels. Technologies centered around nuclear reactors are
poised to contribute significantly to the generation of clean energy by addressing the
need for various industries such as transportation, heating, cooking, and hydrogen
production in the global effort to combat climate change. Nuclear stands as a key
component for achieving a future characterized by reduced energy consumption.
Generation IV reactors produce elevated temperatures to facilitate efficient hydrogen
production. Despite the inherent challenges associated with advanced technology,
VHTR and GFR stand out as the leading contenders for attaining elevated outlet
temperatures. Using the coolant heat from the LFR, MSFR, SCWR, and SFR for
hydrogen production is also feasible. However, this approach results in a reduction of
electricity available for the power grid system. If proper and new structural materials can
handle the very high temperature, then reactors can be used for hydrogen production
and electricity generation, as well. However, the VHTR and GFR feature a notably high
outlet temperature for the coolant, which will be used in the S–I process, steam
reforming process, and electrolysis process for the production of hydrogen