Research and Development Study for Deep Ocean Reactor Placement

摘要

This study presents a survey of the various means by which an object weighing over a hundred tons can be lowered to the ocean floor (20,000 feet), monitored, and retrieved. Two basic systems, their major subsystems, and alternate modes of operation are discussed, analyzed, and evaluated. The All-Surface System accomplishes the required tasks from the surface of the sea. The Vehicle-Assisted System utilizes submersible work vehicles. The approximate costs of these two systems are compared and a composite system is recommended which is considered the best from the standpoints of flexibility and practicality. The Appendixes include studies on nuclear considerations; a discussion of long lines including rods, pipes, ropes, and chains; a parametric study of deep diving vehicles, and an analysis of the variation in sea water density and load volumes as applied in this study. (Author)