Nuclear power gas turbines: an old idea whose time has come

It is possible, by combining proven technologies, to produce a closed-cycle gas turbine engine in which the gas is heated by a nuclear reactor. The characteristics of the engine would include rapid start capabilities, rapid response to changing load conditions, independence from fuel supply uncertainties, small total plant volume, independence from oxygen, zero air pollution, relatively low thermal pollution, a high level of plant safety, relative ease of maintenance and operation, reduced long term radioactive waste and acceptable lifetime cost