Radiation dosimetry using three-dimensional optical random access memories

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Physics
• Radiation Detection

Background:

• Three-dimensional optical random access memories (3D ORAMs) utilize photochromic molecules for high-density data storage.
• These materials undergo reversible transformations triggered by light for binary information storage and retrieval.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the application of 3D ORAM materials for radiation dosimetry.
• To determine if ionizing radiation can alter stored information in 3D ORAMs.
• To establish a method for measuring absorbed dose, particle type, and energy using 3D ORAMs.

Main Methods:

• Theoretical and experimental analysis of 3D ORAM material response to ionizing radiation.
• Exposure of 3D ORAM materials to various heavy charged particles (protons, alpha particles, 12C ions).
• Analysis of changes in stored information and laser-induced fluorescence intensity and depth.
• Modeling of radiation effects using Monte Carlo simulations.

Main Results:

• Ionizing radiation, specifically heavy charged particles, alters the stored binary information in 3D ORAM materials.
• The magnitude and spatial distribution of these alterations correlate with absorbed dose, particle type, and energy.
• Exposed materials exhibit laser-induced fluorescence, with intensity and depth dependent on particle characteristics.
• Monte Carlo simulations accurately model these observed effects.

Conclusions:

• 3D ORAM materials show significant potential for radiation dosimetry applications.
• The observed radiation-induced changes and fluorescence provide a basis for developing novel detectors for charged particles and neutrons.
• The developed models enhance understanding of material properties for future detector design.