MobileNuclear Energy (MNE) has announced a new partnership with Peregrine Turbine Technologies (PTT) to merge their technologies.
This collaboration aims to integrate MNE’s MN-1 Mobile Microreactor system with PTT’s advanced supercritical carbon dioxide (sCO2) energy conversion systems and heat exchanger technologies.
Overview of MobileNuclear’s MN-1 Microreactor
Based in Virginia, MNE is dedicated to developing and deploying the first truly mobile, safe, sustainable, and affordable nuclear microreactor.
The MN-1 is designed to offer a robust, modular energy generation solution for military and governmental use.
Its compact reactor core is optimized for efficiency, lightweight design, and safety, making it ideal for various applications including air, land, and sea transport.
The MN-1 can also be used in transit to power propulsion systems, directed energy weapons, or other high-power applications.
Integration with PTT’s Energy Systems
The partnership will focus on integrating PTT Nuclear Energy Systems’ (PTT NES) patented sCO2 energy conversion systems with MNE’s MN-1 microreactor.
PTT NES’s sCO2 system operates as a closed-loop heat engine, which is adaptable to any high-grade heat source, including nuclear and concentrated solar energy, as well as various combustible fuels such as sustainable biomass, biogas, refuse-derived fuels, and natural gas.
Technical Specifications and Capabilities
The core power module, which generates 1 MWt and 350 kWe, is comparable in size to a standard 20-foot (6-meter) shipping container.
It includes the microreactor and PTT’s sCO2 turbine-generator. Additional modules can be added to the core unit to provide capabilities such as atmospheric water generation, hydrogen-based fuel production, and both heating and cooling.
PTT’s energy conversion system, developed in partnership with Sandia National Laboratories’ Brayton Laboratory, offers advanced efficiency compared to traditional steam and air Brayton systems.
PTT claims that its technology is 1.5 times more efficient than steam systems and occupies less than one-third of the footprint, with over three times the efficiency of air Brayton systems.
Statements from Key Figures
Chris Pehrson, CEO of MobileNuclear, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “MobileNuclear is excited to partner with PTT NES to integrate their sCO2 systems with our mobile microreactor. This collaboration perfectly aligns with our goal to deliver high-capacity energy solutions while maintaining the mobility that our system is known for.”
David Stapp, CEO and Chief Technology Officer of PTT NES, highlighted the significance of the collaboration: “Combining advanced nuclear technology with our sCO2 power conversion technology is a transformative development for both commercial and military energy markets. Our technology complements MobileNuclear’s reactor, providing unmatched performance and capability. We are thrilled to collaborate with such a capable partner.”
PTT’s Focus and Recent Developments
PTT, established in April 2012 and headquartered in Wiscasset, Maine, specializes in advanced sCO2 turbine power generation, energy storage, and propulsion systems.
In July of the previous year, PTT launched a new subsidiary, PTT Nuclear Energy Systems, to address the potential in very small modular reactor (VSMR) and micro modular reactor (MMR) programs, with capabilities ranging from 350 kW to 10 MW.
PTT aims to offer a range of modular sCO2 energy conversion systems.
Additionally, in April this year, Ultra Safe Nuclear Corporation announced a similar collaboration with PTT to integrate its Pylon microreactor with PTT’s sCO2 energy conversion system and heat exchanger technologies, further demonstrating PTT’s growing influence in the sector.
Conclusion
The collaboration between MobileNuclear and PTT represents a significant advancement in integrating cutting-edge nuclear and energy conversion technologies. By combining their expertise, both companies aim to push the boundaries of energy generation, offering solutions that are both highly efficient and adaptable to various applications.