Publisher's Synopsis
The need to deal with the effects of climate change requires the development and implementation of low-carbon sources of energy. Recent analysis has shown that energy generated by nuclear fission has a smaller carbon footprint than that of many renewable sources such as wind or solar. As well, nuclear energy has a much higher energy density than most renewable sources. This book will provide an overview of the environmental aspects of nuclear power, an introduction to the physics of fission reactors and a summary of the drawbacks of current reactor designs. It is aimed at advanced science and engineering students and professionals with a background in university level modern physics. The majority of the book will discuss the six Generation IV reactor designs approved by the International Forum.
Key Features:
- Provides an overview of how nuclear fission power can contribute to future low-carbon energy sources
- Discusses the environmental aspects of nuclear power, the physics of fission reactors and the drawbacks of current reactor designs
- Provides a detailed technical description of potential Generation IV fission reactors
- Analyses how each Generation IV reactor design deals with current reactor drawbacks
- Reviews previous work and current status of each Generation IV reactor design
- Considers the possibility and timescale for commercial development of each design
