Investigating the nexus between radiolysis using spent nuclear fuel and hydrogen production, with environmental safety considerations – A literature review

Given the detrimental consequences of climate change on the environment, hydrogen appears to be one of the solutions to possible decarbonization. Although it is a potential option, the subject of hydrogen production utilizing nuclear spent fuel (SNF) through water radiolysis has not received much attention to explore its potential use for large-scale hydrogen production. This review, therefore, presents an overview of research work on the use of SNF’s ionizing radiation for the production of hydrogen and its potential impact on environmental safety. This paper investigates the advantages and difficulties of hydrogen generation in SNF storage system by utilizing a bibliometric and systematic review technique to analyse previous research works. The research themes were classified into motor, niche, emerging/declining, and basic themes. Some important themes that were found to be central to the topic included radiation shielding, hydrogen production, and environmental sustainability; life cycle assessment; renewable energy integration; nuclear waste management; hydrogen storage; and modular reactors. The study identified some potential research gaps and provided some recommendations for future research. This includes the improvement in the hydrogen detection systems, hydrogen collection and ventilation, containment of radioactive isotopes, understanding radiolysis impacts, and the development of purification and storage methods for hydrogen from spent nuclear fuel. The outcome of this study is expected to shape future research on the subject matter and serve as the foundation for deeper understanding of radiolysis for commercial-scale hydrogen production.