Date of Award

3-2024

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science in Engineering Management

Department

Department of Systems Engineering and Management

First Advisor

Jeremy M. Slagley, PhD

Abstract

Energy is an item that makes the military vulnerable as it is something that they depend on the most which can have negative impacts. Mobile nuclear reactors are gaining the interest of many leaders in the military as a viable option of a potential alternative fuel source. There are many positives in utilizing mobile nuclear reactors in terms of environmental impacts and feasibility of transport. Studies have shown that mobile nuclear reactors can produce very low or negligible carbon emissions during operations. The focus of this thesis is to determine the environmental impacts of nuclear reactors, logistical requirements, and determine any challenges in terms of utilizing these reactors in INDOPACOM region. This research utilized SimaPro to develop the life cycle assessment (LCA) to determine the environmental impacts of the production and transportation of such reactors to specific locations in INDOPACOM. Appropriate value inputs were gathered from relevant research, technical reports, and best estimates. Although nuclear fuel did not perform better than all the other alternative fuels, it is still a better option than JP8-fueled generators. The findings indicate its potential as a more favorable option than JP8, highlighting the importance of further investigation into the role of mobile nuclear reactors in mitigating environmental impacts and enhancing military energy resilience.

AFIT Designator

AFIT-ENV-MS-24-M-133

Comments

A 12-month embargo was observed for posting this work on AFIT Scholar.

Distribution Statement A, Approved for Public Release. PA case number on file.

Download

Share

COinS