Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Powered by high-efficiency thermophotovoltaics and developed through economics-by-design analysis, a promising, optimized design was selected for the radiantly integrated TPV–microreactor system. However, the novelty of the conversion system, the connection between the TPV and critical reactor core, requires a proper degree of reliability analysis to develop confidence in this technology. This is made difficult by the lack of computational tools that capture the full suite of physics and feedback mechanisms present in the RITMS design. This paper outlines the methods utilized to capture power, temperature, and reactivity variation and feedback mechanisms through time, utilizing lumped conditions, point kinetics equations, and the determination of temperature reactivity coefficients. The computational package was applied to a series of accident-driven transient scenarios, demonstrating the RITMS design’s ability to return to a safe operating equilibrium without active interference. In the case of high positive reactivity insertion accidents, design solutions were demonstrated that would mitigate risk.
Source: Energies
DOI: 10.3390/en18236361
Authors: Naiki Kaffezakis, Dan Kotlyar
Institution: Georgia Institute of Technology
Language: English
Subfield: Aerospace Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $3,137
OpenAlex ID: W4417050406