Performance analysis of active carbon recycling energy system

A new energy system, called Active Carbon Recycling Energy System (ACRES), based on nuclear power has been introduced for reduced carbon dioxide emissions and the establishment of carbon supply security. In this study, the feasibility of ACRES were estimated thermodynamically by using the reaction enthalpy balance for select recycling hydrocarbons. Carbon monoxide (CO) and simple carbon are appropriate media for ACRES because of their high energy quality, energy density, and reactivity. A high-temperature gas-reactor (HTGR), the first candidate primary energy source for ACRES, was found to be applicable to high-temperature CO2 electrolysis for CO production. An iron-making process using ACRES is expected to produce lower CO2 emissions than hydrogen-based iron-making processes. The applicability of ACRES recycling with CO to iron-making was evaluated by enthalpy analysis. ACRES is expected to be a technological solution for a low-carbon society.

► An energy system of Active Carbon Recycling Energy System (ACRES) has been proposed.
► Feasibility of ACRES was estimated thermodynamically.
► Carbon monoxide and simple carbon are appropriate media for ACRES.
► An iron-making process using ACRES has lower CO2 emissions than H2-based processes.
► ACRES is capable to reduce CO2 emissions and to establish carbon supply security.