Nov 14, 2014
By Michael Kramer
A breakthrough on medical isotopes.
In Saskatoon, scientists using the Canadian Light Source Synchrotron have successfully used X-rays to produce medical isotopes – which are used in some diagnostic tests.
Director Mark de Jong says the discovery could eventually be of help – to prevent a shortage of the material.
Generally, medical isotopes are created in nuclear reactors – but the CLSS particle accelerator at the University of Saskatchewan has more of a positive outcome because it doesn’t create any nuclear waste – and is more reliable.
There are only a few nuclear reactors in the world that produce medical isotopes – and de Jong says many of them are 40 to 50 years old.
The project is expected to get approval from Health Canada by 2016.
To learn about advertising opportunities with Zoomer Radio use the link below: