Heat distribution by thermo-chemical heat pipe

For the application of the HTR in the heat market KFA Juelich in cooperation with divers partner companies has been developing a novel long distance transport system for latent heat. This Thermo-Chemical Pipeline (TCP) system is basing on cyclic chemical conversion processes consuming/releasing high temperature heat: steam reforming of methane and methanation of synthesis gas. The long distance heat transport occurs by gases at ambient temperature. Thus nuclear generated heat could be released at remote sites independent on nuclear local stations. Because of high temperature heat release the local station would be able to generate high pressure superheated steam which allows the advantageous combined heat/power generation mode benefitting the economy of the complete energy supply system. (author) 5 figs., 6 refs