Exergy analysis of heat exchangers in the copper-chlorine thermochemical cycle to enhance thermal effectiveness and cycle efficiency

Abstract

Most existing nuclear power plants in North America are typically water-cooled and operate at 250–5008C. For this temperature level, the copper–chlorine (Cu–Cl) cycle is one of the most promisingcycles that can be integrated with nuclear reactors for hydrogen production by decomposing water intoits constituents. In this study, we analyze the heat exchangers in the Cu–Cl thermochemical cycle so asto enhance heat transfer effectiveness and thereby improve the cycle efficiency. The thermalmanagement options for internal and external heat transfer are studied and heat recovery opportunitiesare investigated and compared. Each heat exchanger in the cycle is examined individually based on thechemical/physical behavior of the process, and the most appropriate options are recommended. Athermodynamic analysis and associated parametric studies are performed for various configurations tocontrast their efficiencies and effectivenesses.