Integrated system for converting nuclear energy into electrical, mechanical, and thermal energy

An apparatus for generating electricity comprising:

• a gas propellant chamber comprised of an annular body defining first and second ends, the first end of the annular body defining an inlet assembly that is configured to draw operating gas into the gas propellant chamber and the second end defining an exhaust assembly that is configured to expel operating gas from the gas propellant chamber, the gas propellant chamber comprising a compressor positioned proximate the first end of the gas propellant chamber, a turbine assembly positioned proximate the second end of the gas propellant chamber, and a nuclear fuel chamber positioned within the annular body of the gas propellant chamber between the compressor and turbine assembly, wherein a drive shaft extending axially through the gas propellant chamber between the first and second ends couples at least the compressor to the turbine assembly;
• a containment vessel, wherein the gas propellant chamber is disposed within the containment vessel;
• and
• a rotor/stator assembly partially integrated within the containment vessel such that a rotor is disposed internally of the containment vessel, the rotor being in communication with a stator disposed externally of the containment vessel, and the rotor configured to rotate, thereby generating electricity.