Initial Performance Evaluation and Ranking of Thermal Energy Storage Options for Light Water Reactor Integration to Support Modeling and Simulation

Abstract

This report provides an in-depth analysis of current thermal storage technologies in the marketplace as of 2019 and develops a phenomenological identification ranking table (PIRT) and Figure of Merit (FOM) study for near-term thermal energy storage technologies with light water reactor technology. Particular focus was given the NuScale reactor as part of the Joint Use Modular Plant (JUMP) program between INL, NuScale, and the Utah Associated Municipal Project (UAMPs).It is fair to notice that the changes in the scope of the Integrated Energy System program led this report to focus more on thermal energy storage than on hydrogen as a form of local energy storage. This is due to LWRS (Light Water Reactor Sustainability) program picking up this area of research with an industrial partner as a part of a CRADA.Moreover, instead of trying to develop few initial models of some storage technologies, it has been chosen to analyze a broader range of thermal storage technologies and models available in literature. This takes also in consideration that any new model development in modelica would become soon obsolete, giving the decision to reshape the hybrid ecosystem of modelica models, which is part of FY2020 effort.Ancillary service industries and technologies are explored in detail to ascertain thermodynamic requirements for integration with thermal energy storage technologies. These industries include steel manufacturing, hydrogen production, desalination, pulp and paper manufacturing. It was determined that a large percentage of these industries can make use of existing nuclear output temperatures and pressures. Storage technologies that can maintain these values are advantageous for coupling purposes.The report then analyzes ten thermal energy storage technologies, with thirteen specific systems discussed in detail regarding their potential to integrate with LWR technology. A ranking tool identified important characteristics of thermal storage and ranked each of the technologies. Concrete, molten salt, and thermal oil sensible heat storages, and steam accumulators evaluated highly. After including cost estimations and qualitatively comparing these technologies, it is recommended that either molten salt or thermal oil is used for implementation with the JUMP module. The TES project cost will likely cost between $14,000,000 and $50,000,000. The potential flexibility of a two-tank sensible heat storage system should be able to demonstrate various new uses for nuclear heat. From power peaking via steam or liquid air heat topping to process heat applications, a two-tank system should be able to best provide a constant power transfer capability to the auxiliary energy consumer.Through commencement of this work, a more refined thermal storage selection process for Nuscale and existing nuclear power plants can be conducted. The ranking system developed here can be used to reevaluate the energy storage options periodically depending on the projected installation dates. Current results suggest two-tank thermal energy storage i...