Hydrogen production by water decomposition using a combined electrolytic-thermochemical cycleA proposed dual-purpose power plant generating nuclear power to provide energy for driving a water decomposition system is described. The entire system, dubbed Sulfur Cycle Water Decomposition System, works on sulfur compounds (sulfuric acid feedstock, sulfur oxides) in a hybrid electrolytic-thermochemical cycle; performance superior to either all-electrolysis systems or presently known all-thermochemical systems is claimed. The 3345 MW(th) graphite-moderated helium-cooled reactor (VHTR - Very High Temperature Reactor) generates both high-temperature heat and electric power for the process; the gas stream at core exit is heated to 1850 F. Reactor operation is described and reactor innards are illustrated. A cost assessment for on-stream performance in the 1990's is optimistic.
Document ID
19770050504
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Proceedings
Authors
Farbman, G. H. (Westinghouse Electric Corp. Pittsburgh, PA, United States)
Brecher, L. E. (Westinghouse Electric Corp. Pittsburgh, Pa., United States)