Generation IV systems, potential and technological challenges

Nuclear reactors of the future

Figure 1 - Evolution of world population and primary energy requirements (source: IIASA 1998 study for the World Energy Council, &#34;Global Energy Perspectives to 2050 and beyond&#34;).

Figure 2 - Timetable for the different generations of nuclear reactors

Figure 3 - Reference sodium RNR (SFR) concept in &#34;integrated&#34; version

Figure 4 - Reference RNR-gas (or GFR) concept

Figure 5 - Reference VHTR concept

Figure 6 - RNR-Pb (LFR) battery concepts

Figure 7 - Reference SCWR concept

Figure 8 - Reference RSF (MSR) concept

Figure 9 - Exploded TRISO type RHT combustion particle

Figure 10 - Proportion of fission gases retained in the mixed monocarbon (U,Pu)C, as a function of combustion rate and temperature

Figure 11 - Fuel concepts studied for RNR-gas

Figure 12 - Schematic diagram of full recycling with group separation

Figure 13 - General fuel processing diagram (RNR-gas)

Figure 14 - Schematic diagram of the GANEX process

Figure 15 - Actinide nuclei obtained by the sol-gel process

Figure 16 - Joule-Brayton cycle envisaged for RNR-gas

Figure 17 - SOEC electrolyzer and SOFC hydrogen fuel cell

Figure 18 - Schematic representation of the I-S cycle