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The human factor in licensing and operating the next generation of nuclear plants
As human factors specialists working at the intersection of human performance and nuclear operations, we are witnessing one of the nuclear sector’s most significant transitions in decades. The emergence of small modular reactors, microreactors, and other advanced designs is reshaping the industry’s landscape. Digital instrumentation and controls, passive safety systems, and increased automation are creating opportunities for greater safety margins and more flexible operation. These same features also fundamentally redefine what it means to “operate” a nuclear plant. Interactions among human roles, automation, and passive systems shape how people maintain awareness, exercise judgment, and intervene when necessary. These developments affect both operational realities and the regulatory foundations on which nuclear safety is built.
Paul Kruger
Nuclear Technology | Volume 166 | Number 1 | April 2009 | Pages 11-17
Technical Paper | Special Issue on Nuclear Hydrogen Production, Control, and Management | doi.org/10.13182/NT09-A6963
Articles are hosted by Taylor and Francis Online.
The National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) recognized the need to balance growth of industrial development with consideration of its effect on the environment. One of the major factors under NEPA consideration is appropriate technology with respect to use of appropriate energy resources for large-scale generation of electricity and transportation fuel. To reduce dependence on petroleum-based transportation fuels, some combination of renewable and nuclear energy will be required for a sustainable electricity and fuel supply. Specific energy of available fuels is a useful parameter for selecting the appropriate technologies for large-scale applications. At least three methods are available for producing hydrogen fuel with nuclear technology.