The NRU reactor: past, present & future

The NRU (National Research Universal) Reactor has operated at Atomic Energy of Canada's (AECL's) Chalk River Laboratories since 1957. NRU is a 135 MWt multipurpose heavy water-cooled and moderated research reactor that provides a neutron source for a wide range of applications. This paper reviews NRU reactor's current capabilities and highlights of past experience, from the perspectives of materials research with neutron beams, isotope production and irradiation of nuclear fuels, materials and components. One of NRU's primary mandates in recent times has been the production of Molybenum-99, which is needed for the majority of imaging procedures in nuclear medicine worldwide. Per previously announced Government of Canada policy, it is expected that NRU will cease supplying Molybdenum-99 beyond 2016, constituting a major change in the mandate and operation of the reactor. The operation of NRU beyond 2016 is being considered to support industry-led, cost-shared nuclear innovation in Canada. This marks a new era for NRU, where business-driven needs and partnerships shape the way this powerful and versatile resource for science and technology delivers benefits to Canada and the world. (author)