State-of-the-Art Review of Small Modular Reactors

Abstract

The decarbonization of the energy industry is one of the key pillars in the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions in the atmosphere. The energy generation industry is an important driver in the development of nations. Small modular reactors (SMRs) are considered an affordable energy generation technology that can provide clean energy that is comparable to other renewable energy technologies. However, several critical issues are established in the full adoption of and investment in SMRs in developing nations. A state-of-the-art review of the SMRs is proposed, involving key issues on technological, economic, environmental, and socio-political aspects. Methods of aggregating these factors in order to determine a country’s suitability to invest in SMRs have been explored, while also determining specific areas needing improvement.

Keywords

• small modular reactors
• multi-criteria decision making
• nuclear energy
• state-of-the-art review