The economic perspectives and high temperature reactor (HTR)

The purpose of this paper is to consider what strategy is currently appropriate with respect to the development and application of nuclear heat for high temperature fossil fuel processing. The case for considering this application of nuclear energy is based on the presumption that liquid and gaseous fossil fuels are likely to become relatively very expensive as a consequence of short supply. The technicalities of applying nuclear heat to fossil fuel processes are discussed. The subject is further examined under the headings: nuclear energy supply; uranium supplies; commitments on the UK nuclear industry. (U.K.)