Optimal Design and Preliminary Transient Analysis of Coupling System of Micro-Nuclear-Reactor with Energy Storage System

Abstract

Micro nuclear reactors, particularly those utilizing heat-pipe-cooling technology (HPRs), have emerged as a compelling solution for reducing carbon emissions, attributed to their compactness, versatility, and economic advantages. These reactors are distinguished by their resilience against single-point failures, their ability to passively remove heat from the core, and their modular nature, making them ideally suited for diverse applications, including remote grid-connected communities and mining operations. However, the deployment of HPRs in such settings introduces operational challenges, notably the difficulty in adapting to the fluctuating energy demands due to the reactors' inherent thermal inertia and the cooling system's response characteristics. This study introduces a novel conceptual framework for a hybrid energy system that integrates HPRs with battery-based energy storage, aiming to enhance the system's adaptability to variable energy demands. The proposed system incorporates a comprehensive model encompassing the nuclear reactor core, heat pipe cooling apparatus, Brayton cycle energy conversion mechanism, and a supplementary battery storage unit. Through a detailed evaluation, the study assesses the hybrid system's capacity to respond to dynamic energy requirements effectively. Preliminary results from this investigation reveal that the integration of HPRs with battery storage significantly augments the system's load-following capabilities, mitigating the challenges associated with sudden power fluctuations inherent in standalone HPR systems.