Bill Gates’ company will create a nuclear reactor that stores energy
TerraPower, established by Bill Gates, is collaborating with GE Hitachi Nuclear Power to develop an innovative nuclear reactor named Natrium. A distinctive feature of this reactor is its surplus energy storage system using liquid salt. Commercial availability of Natrium reactors is anticipated before 2030.
Natrium technology
Natrium operates as a fast neutron reactor utilizing liquid sodium as its coolant, from which it derives its name. The utilization of sodium offers several advantages, notably its high thermal conductivity, facilitating efficient heat dissipation from the reactor core. Unlike water-cooled reactors, sodium-cooled reactors do not require high-pressure maintenance due to sodium’s significantly higher boiling point at standard pressure. This simplifies the reactor construction process. Moreover, sodium does not cause corrosion to the steel components of the reactor.
The concept of storing energy in liquid salt, already proven successful in solar energy applications, involves capturing heat generated in the reactor by the salt, which is then stored in a thermally insulated container. During periods of increased energy demand, the salt is directed to the generator, where it contributes to steam production, subsequently driving the turbine.
Although the nominal power of the Natrium reactor stands at 345 megawatts electrical (MWe), the incorporation of stored energy enables a temporary increase to 500 MWe for over 5 hours.
The goal of creating a reactor with energy storage
Bill Gates’ company aims to develop an environmentally friendly and cost-effective energy source that seamlessly integrates with the power grid. Natrium reactors stand out for their compact size and straightforward construction, boasting high safety standards that eliminate the need for special permits. With low construction and maintenance costs, coupled with exceptional fuel efficiency (four times higher than traditional light water reactors), the energy produced by Natrium reactors is expected to competitively price compared to renewable sources.
Natrium reactors operate continuously at maximum capacity, storing excess energy during off-peak periods and releasing it when demand surges. This dynamic power regulation enhances grid stability, particularly beneficial for renewable energy systems. These reactors serve as reliable energy storage solutions, crucial for times when weather conditions hinder wind or solar energy generation.
According to developers, Natrium technology has the potential to replace fossil fuels in various industrial processes like water desalination, hydrogen production, petrochemical manufacturing, and steel production. The integration of nuclear reactors in these processes promises to significantly reduce their carbon footprint.
Modern atomic energy
Natrium represents the cutting-edge of nuclear technology as a fourth-generation reactor, currently in the design and research phase. These reactors, including Natrium, are not expected to be commercially available until after 2030. Among them, sodium-cooled reactors, like Natrium, are the most advanced and well-developed. They have been recognized by the International Generation IV Forum as one of the most promising systems to develop further.
The fundamental objectives of fourth-generation technology encompass sustainable development, safety enhancement, cost reduction in reactor construction and operation, and waste minimization. Natrium effectively aligns with these goals. Its use of liquid sodium as a coolant not only enhances safety but also reduces the need for concrete, simplifies construction, and lowers costs. Additionally, its fuel efficiency contributes to reducing radioactive waste, while energy storage capabilities minimize losses. If the economic viability remains consistent until market introduction, TerraPower and GE Hitachi Nuclear Power have the opportunity to lead the way in producing new-generation reactors with integrated energy storage systems.
Sources:
http://large.stanford.edu/courses/2015/ph240/dodaro2/
http://large.stanford.edu/courses/2015/ph240/dodaro2/
https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/can-sodium-save-nuclear-power/
https://nuclear.pl/energetyka,genIV,reaktory-iv-generacji,0,0.html