Nuclear Power Generation
In this chapter nuclear power generation systems are introduced. In the first part of the chapter the basic theory of nuclear reaction is reviewed as a prerequisite for understanding nuclear fuels and controlled generation of nuclear heat. Conventional and advanced concepts for nuclear fuel are then studied. All types of conventional reactors for nuclear power stations and advanced generation reactors are introduced. As cogeneration represents a major development trend for nuclear power generators, a section of this chapter is dedicated to cogeneration schemes of power and district heating, power and high-temperature process heat, power and desalination, and power and hydrogen generation. The chapter includes several illustrative examples and case studies.