AECL shuts down reactor again

AuntMinnie.com staff writers

May 18, 2009

North America could face another shortage of medical isotopes as soon as this weekend.

Atomic Energy of Canada (AECL) shut down its nuclear reactor at Chalk River, Ontario, on May 14 after a power outage in parts of eastern Ontario and western Quebec.

The Canadian Press today reports that a heavy water leak was detected within the facility the following day, May 15, and currently is being contained and stored in drums.

AECL estimates the reactor will be out of service for more than a month while repair options are considered.

The report cited AECL as saying it has enough medical isotopes for the coming week, but will be unable to meet demand by Saturday and will immediately begin looking at supply options.

Related Reading

Chalk River reactor has minor leak, February 26, 2009

Chalk River back online, February 18, 2009

Chalk River closes again temporarily, February 17, 2009

Report: Canada's isotope supply 'fragile,' January 29, 2009

Report: Use of low-enriched uranium in medical isotopes is feasible, January 15, 2009

Copyright © 2009 AuntMinnie.com

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