Nuclear microreactors and thermal integration with hydrogen generation processes

Nuclear microreactors offer reliable, low-carbon dispatchable power and heat for various end use applications. Although the direct electricity end uses are straightforward, the feasibility of microreactors’ integration for thermal end use has not been analyzed in literature in sufficient detail. Delivering process heat generated by nuclear microreactors to supply the high temperatures essential for hydrogen production has been proposed as one cogeneration option that can further aid in the alleviation of climate change, since hydrogen can replace carbon-emitting fuels such as gasoline, diesel or natural gas. This review provides a novel perspective on the intersection of microreactors and process heat use by investigating hydrogen production technologies, microreactor designs and process heat integration options. A comprehensive overview of hydrogen production methods including electrolysis and thermochemical conversions of hydrocarbons and water is presented by classifying the methods based on process temperatures and maturity. Additionally, an in-depth summary detailing the reactor type, power output, and maximum operating temperature of many prospective microreactor designs has been created. Finally, heat transfer options for integrating microreactors to hydrogen production systems were evaluated. The intermediate heat exchanger (IHX) assessment considers IHX material, IHX type, and heat transfer media utilized within the apparatus.