EPR analysis of the effects of accelerated carbon ion and fast neutron irradiations on table sugar

Table sugar samples were irradiated with accelerated carbon ions and fast neutrons. Electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) analysis performed after the irradiation revealed a complex spectrum similar to that observed after gamma-ray irradiations. The total concentration of the paramagnetic centers induced by accelerated carbon ions and neutrons was proportional to the absorbed dose. Good stability of the produced free radicals was observed for a typical period of sugar storage. Sugar was more sensitive to accelerated carbon ions than to neutrons. The results show that table sugar can be a useful material for dosimetry in the case of a radiation accident.