Concept of Direct Energy Conversion Nuclear Cogeneration Plant

摘要

The concept of a nuclear cogeneration plant with the in-core low-temperature thermionic power system on a basis of thermionic converters (TIC) with an interelectrode medium containing the condensed excited cesium (Rydberg matter) has been discussed. The design feature of this plant is the use of a pool water-moderated reactor with thermionic converters embedded in the reactor core. The plant is fully self-sufficient. The absence of the dynamic energy converters simplifies the plant operation and essentially decreases the number of personnel. The experimental data on the high-performance low-temperature modes of operation of a TIC with Rydberg matter acquired at the SSC RF-IPPE proved a possibility to achieve the heat-into-electricity conversion efficiency of 30%. With these TIC, the plant electrical power will be up to 2 MWel with the efficiency at a level of 25%. The non-converted heat can be used for heat supplying. The plant meets the IAEA requirements on safety.