A Study of nuclear energy supply system in extremely severe surroundings mainly using radioisotope

Nomura, Norio; Haga, Kazuo; not registered

Within a framework of transportable reactor study, a conceptual design study of power source has been performed for lunar base or space stations. Energy supply systems using Radioisotope fueled Thermoelectric Generators(RTGs) for extremely severe surroundings are introduced in this paper. At first, potential of RTGs for small-scale energy supply unit was researched from the point of theory, system structure, and performance. Also the manufacturing processes of radioisotopes to be used in RTGs were investigated. Secondly in order to make the nuclear energy system on the moon independent of the earth as much as possible, we proposed concepts of an investigation and mining method for uranium ore and continuous operation for nuclear fuel cycle which uses laser technology to reprocessing and group separation of elements as well as enrichment of uranium. Thirdly a Rankine cycle system sourced solar energy (Solar Ray System) was introduced. The power generating equipments of the system is the same as those of transportable reactor. Lastly we showed a concept of electrostatic power system sourced cosmic rays and a shielding method from cosmic rays.