Zohuri B., McDaniel P. Thermodynamics In Nuclear Power Plant Systems

Springer International Publishing, Switzerland, 2015, 682 pages, ISBN: 3319134183This book covers the fundamentals of thermodynamics required to understand electrical power generation systems, honing in on the application of these principles to nuclear reactor power systems. It includes all the necessary information regarding the fundamental laws to gain a complete understanding and apply them specifically to the challenges of operating nuclear plants. Beginning with definitions of thermodynamic variables such as temperature, pressure and specific volume, the book then explains the laws in detail, focusing on pivotal concepts such as enthalpy and entropy, irreversibility, availability, and Maxwell relations. Specific applications of the fundamentals to Brayton and Rankine cycles for power generation are considered in-depth, in support of the book’s core goal- providing an examination of how the thermodynamic principles are applied to the design, operation and safety analysis of current and projected reactor systems. Detailed appendices cover metric and English system units and conversions, detailed steam and gas tables, heat transfer properties, and nuclear reactor system descriptions.Definitions and Basic Principles
Properties of Pure Substances
Mixture
Work and Heat
First Law of Thermodynamics
The Kinetic Theory of Gases
Second Law of Thermodynamics
Reversible Work, Irreversibility, and Exergy (Availability)
Gas Kinetic Theory of Entropy
Thermodynamic Relations
Combustion
Heat Transfer
Heat Exchangers
Gas Power Cycles
Vapor Power Cycles
Circulating Water Systems
Electrical System
Nuclear Power Plants
Nuclear Fuel Cycle
The Economic Future of Nuclear Power
Safety, Waste Disposal, Containment, and Accidents