High-temperature gas-cooled reactor: reformer application study

This Application Study evaluates the HTGR-R with a core outlet temperature of 8500C as a near-term Lead Project and as a vehicle to long-term HTGR Program objectives. The scope of this effort included evaluation of the HTGR-R technology, evaluation of potential HTGR-R markets, assessment of the economics of commercial HTGR-R plants, and the evaluation of the program scope and expenditures necessary to establish HTGR-R technology through the completion of the Lead Project. In order to properly assess the potential of the HTGR-R and the suitability of the HTGR-R as a Lead Project, additional work must be performed before a final judgment is rendered. Design trade-off studies and alternative applications must be investigated to determine if a commercial potential exists for the HTGR-R at 8500C. If commercial incentives are only identified for the HTGR-R with core outlet temperatures greater than 8500C, the design and development program duration and cost and the demonstration path for the HTGR-R must be reassessed