Table 4.37 Potential Materials Problems, by Technology, for Three Screening Criteria energy analysis was not important to the decision-making process. Advanced technologies, however, require more energy investment to recover each unit of usable energy, and so the net energy assessment becomes a more important decision parameter. Approach. This preliminary analysis considers state-of-the-art (circa 1985) capabilities for materials extraction and fabrication in order to identify critical areas needing improvement. The possibility of technological improvements was considered in a number of key areas. The energy content of the fuel is not considered. The boundary of each energy system was defined as extending from the primary resource (coal, uranium, and solar radiation) to electricity transmitted from the generating plant. The boundary includes environmental control systems and procedures to the extent that they are directly attributable to the energy system. Materials, fuels, and electricity required for plant construction and operation are also considered.
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTU5NjU0Mg==