CaF2 :Dy and CaF2 crystal-based UV dosimeters

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Optics and Photonics
• Environmental Health

Background:

• Ultraviolet (UV) radiation exposure is linked to skin cancer, aging, and immunosuppression.
• Accurate monitoring of UV exposure is essential for occupational and environmental health.
• Developing reliable UV dosimeters is a key area of research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the UV-dependent thermoluminescence of CaF2:Dy and CaF2 crystals.
• To develop a small, personal UV dosimeter based on thermoluminescence.
• To assess the feasibility of using these crystals for UV radiation monitoring.

Main Methods:

• CaF2:Dy and CaF2 crystals were sensitized to UV by heating to 750-950°C on various supports.
• Sensitized crystals were irradiated with UV radiation of different energies and wavelengths.
• Thermoluminescence of irradiated crystals was measured at varying temperatures.

Main Results:

• Optimal UV sensitivity was achieved after preheating crystals to 900°C on steel and manganese supports.
• CaF2:Dy and CaF2 crystals demonstrated highest sensitivity to short-wave UVC and UVB radiation.
• Personal UVB and UVC dosimeters were successfully constructed based on these findings.

Conclusions:

• Personal UVC and UVB dosimeters utilizing UV-induced thermoluminescence in CaF2:Dy and CaF2 crystals are feasible.
• These crystals are not sufficiently sensitive to long-wave UVA radiation for UVA dosimetry.
• The developed dosimeters offer a promising tool for personal UV exposure assessment.