Engineering and safety analysis of dual-purpose nuclear desalination plants: a case study (Saudi Arabia)

The introduction of nuclear dual-purpose plants for water and power production in nonnuclear countries is considered and Saudi Arabia is selected for a case study. Feasibility of nuclear energy use is examined on the basis of available data. Manpower and management requirements are indicated. The safety features of the specific type of reactor compatible with Saudi Arabian environment are studied. Patterns of water and power demand and consumption are analyzed to extrapolate the extent of actual future dual-purpose desalination activities. The results indicate that the present extensive five-year plan fails short of meeting the growing demand. Adequate supply of water by desalination requires development of units having larger capacity than those presently available