Nuclear Process Heat

Nuclear process heat utilises the thermal energy produced by nuclear reactors to supply heat for various industrial processes. This can be achieved through different reactor designs, including high-temperature gas-cooled reactors (HTGRs) and molten salt reactors (MSRs), which can provide heat at temperatures suitable for industrial applications. The heat can be used for various purposes, such as hydrogen production via thermochemical cycles or steam electrolysis, desalination for fresh water production, and chemical manufacturing, including ammonia and synthetic fuels. Nuclear process heat offers several advantages, including low greenhouse gas emissions, high energy density, and reliable heat supply. It can contribute to decarbonising industrial sectors that are difficult to electrify.

Steam Electrolysis: Uses nuclear heat to produce hydrogen from steam.
Thermochemical Cycles: Use nuclear heat to drive chemical reactions for hydrogen production.

Hydrogen Production: Using nuclear heat for large-scale hydrogen production.
Desalination: Integrating nuclear heat with desalination plants for fresh water production.
Chemical Manufacturing: Using nuclear heat for ammonia and synthetic fuel production.
Industrial Decarbonisation: Replacing fossil fuels with nuclear heat in high-temperature industrial processes.

Radiological risks are similar to those associated with nuclear power generation, focusing on the containment of radioactive materials. Redundant safety systems ensure that industrial products do not become contaminated during the heat transfer process. Stringent safety regulations and international safeguards are implemented to ensure safe operation.

Deployment is challenged by high capital costs and the complexity of integrating nuclear reactors with industrial facilities. This requires specialised technical expertise and accounts for the significant costs of management of fuel sources. Regulatory frameworks must address the specific safety requirements of industrial-nuclear integrated sites.

Proliferation risks are associated with the potential for diversion of nuclear materials for weapons production. Nuclear reactors and fuel cycle facilities are subject to strict international safeguards and regulatory controls to prevent proliferation.