Abstract: A nuclear reactor includes a heat exchanger that transfers thermal energy from a primary reactor coolant to a secondary coolant. The heat exchanger is formed with a hot flow channel, a cold flow channel, and a porous layer between the hot flow channel and the cold flow channel. The porous layer may be thermally insulative to reduce the efficiency of thermal energy transfer from the hot flow channel to the cold flow channel. The porous layer may have a control gas passed therethrough that can be tailored to control the thermal energy transfer through the porous layer. The control gas can be tested for leakage within the heat exchanger. The control gas may also be used to sequester fission or activation products.

Abstract: A sink with an integrally formed an inconspicuous storage space including a storage shelf. The sink has a basin portion and a niche that is integrally formed into the basin and extends substantially along the basin widthwise. The niche is an open area surrounded by three walls including a substantially horizontal floor that forms a substantially horizontal shelf, a substantially vertical wall, and a substantially horizontal ceiling disposed above the floor. The shelf may be used to store dishwashing accessories such as sponges and pads, and other items. The niche is aesthetically pleasing because it is not viewable from the front of the sink and can be seen only from the interior of the sink.

Abstract: A sink with an integrally formed an inconspicuous storage space including a storage shelf. The sink has a basin portion and a niche that is integrally formed into the basin and extends substantially along the basin widthwise. The niche is an open area surrounded by three walls including a substantially horizontal floor that forms a substantially horizontal shelf, a substantially vertical wall, and a substantially horizontal ceiling disposed above the floor. The shelf may be used to store dishwashing accessories such as sponges and pads, and other items. The niche is aesthetically pleasing because it is not viewable from the front of the sink and can be seen only from the interior of the sink.