2009.05.19

CHALK RIVER, Ont. — Canada's medical community could be faced with another shortage of diagnostic isotopes after another shutdown of a nuclear reactor at Chalk River, Ont.

Atomic Energy of Canada Ltd. says its NRU reactor was shut down last Thursday after a power outage in parts of eastern Ontario and western Quebec.

However, a heavy water leak was detected within the facility the following day, and AECL estimates the reactor will be out of service for more than a month while repair options are considered.