Ceramic based electronic component as retrospective radiation dosimeter

Area of Science:

• Dosimetry
• Luminescence techniques
• Materials science

Background:

• Portable electronic devices contain components useful for retrospective dose reconstruction.
• Surface mount devices (SMDs) like resistors are potential dosimeters.
• Luminescence techniques offer sensitive methods for radiation dose assessment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze carbon coated ceramic resistors for retrospective dose reconstruction.
• To evaluate the thermoluminescence (TL) properties of these resistors.
• To determine the feasibility of using these resistors as dosimeters in radiological emergencies.

Main Methods:

• Carbon coated ceramic resistors were extracted from electronic instruments.
• Samples were subjected to beta irradiation.
• Thermoluminescence (TL) measurements were performed.
• Kinetic parameters were evaluated using deconvolution methods.

Main Results:

• A major dosimetric peak was observed around 540 K, with three additional low-temperature peaks.
• A linear beta dose response was observed from 1 Gy to 125 Gy.
• The Minimum Detectable Dose (MDD) was determined to be 0.1 Gy.
• Supralinear dose response was noted below 1 Gy.
• Fading studies were conducted up to 30 days.

Conclusions:

• Carbon coated ceramic resistors are suitable for retrospective dose reconstruction using thermoluminescence.
• The observed linear dose response and low MDD make them promising for radiological emergency applications.
• Further investigation into kinetic parameters aids in understanding the dosimetric properties.