The Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) has unveiled the world’s pioneering hydrogen production facility in Tamil Nadu’s Kalpakkam. This groundbreaking facility is based on the Copper–Chlorine (Cu–Cl) Thermochemical Cycle and utilizes nuclear processes powered by the Fast Test Reactor (FBTR) at the Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research (IGCAR).
Ajit Kumar Mohanty, DAE Secretary and Atomic Energy Commission (AEC) Chairman, inaugurated the facility alongside Sreekumar G Pillai, IGCAR Director. Developed by the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) in Mumbai, the Cu–Cl thermochemical process is a technology demonstrator for hydrogen production using nuclear energy.
Hydrogen, a crucial energy carrier for the future, is anticipated to play a significant role in global efforts toward clean and sustainable energy systems. The Cu–Cl thermochemical cycle, known for its lower operating temperatures and higher efficiency, stands out among various hydrogen production technologies worldwide.
By integrating nuclear heat from fast reactors, this process reduces reliance on fossil fuels and eliminates greenhouse gas emissions linked to traditional hydrogen production methods. The facility’s commissioning signifies a significant milestone in research, design, and operationalizing nuclear-assisted hydrogen production technologies.
