Chalk River Laboratories

Chalk River Laboratories (CRL) is a Canadian federal research facility located in Chalk River, Renfrew County, Ontario. It is managed by the Canadian Nuclear Laboratories (CNL). The facility was established in 1944 as a nuclear research laboratory and has since evolved into a multi-disciplinary research institution.

History

CRL was established during World War II as part of the British-Canadian contribution to the Manhattan Project. The facility was designed to produce plutonium for nuclear weapons. However, after the war, the focus shifted to peaceful uses of nuclear energy. The first nuclear reactor in Canada, the NRX reactor, was built at CRL in 1947.

Research and Development

CRL is a leading center for research and development in nuclear science and technology. The facility houses several research reactors, including the National Research Universal reactor (NRU), which was the most powerful research reactor in the world when it was built in 1957. The NRU reactor has been used for a wide range of scientific research, including materials testing, fuel development, and production of medical isotopes.

Medical Isotope Production

CRL has played a significant role in the production of medical isotopes, particularly molybdenum-99, which is used in medical imaging. The NRU reactor was a major global supplier of medical isotopes until it was shut down in 2018.

Environmental Impact

CRL's operations have had a significant environmental impact, particularly in terms of radioactive waste management. The facility has been the subject of controversy due to incidents of radioactive leakage and concerns about the long-term storage of nuclear waste.

Future Plans

CNL has proposed a major redevelopment plan for CRL, which includes the construction of a new research reactor and a long-term waste management facility. The plan has been met with both support and opposition from various stakeholders.

See Also

• Atomic Energy of Canada Limited
• Nuclear power in Canada
• Nuclear safety and security