Evaluation and optimization of thermoelectric generator network for waste heat utilization in nuclear power plants and non-nuclear energy applications

Abstract

This paper addresses the development of a waste heat utilization using thermoelectric generator network for nuclear power generation facilities including nuclear power plants such as CANDU and PWR, and Gen-IV reactor designs such as molten salt reactor (MSR). The Thermoelectric Generator Safety System (TEGSS) provides maximum power from the waste heat, which has potential to be used as a backup power source in the event of loss of power following accidents as well as in normal operation. Power is generated utilizing thermoelectric generators which extracts the waste heat energy from the reactor. The power can be used for equipment in the control room or other areas as required to ensure plant status is available at all times for critical decision making during an accident scenario.