Gamma radiation dosimetry using a NaCl:Ba(T) thermoluminescent phosphor

Area of Science:

• Solid State Physics
• Materials Science
• Radiation Detection

Background:

• Thermoluminescence (TL) is a phenomenon where materials emit light upon heating after exposure to ionizing radiation.
• Sodium chloride (NaCl) doped with barium (Ba) is investigated for its potential as a thermoluminescent dosimeter (TLD).

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the thermoluminescence characteristics of pure and Ba-doped NaCl after gamma irradiation.
• To evaluate the dosimetric properties of a specific Ba-doped NaCl phosphor (NaCl:Ba(T)) for radiation detection.

Main Methods:

• Exposure of pure and Ba-doped NaCl samples (untreated and heat-treated) to gamma radiation at room temperature.
• Analysis of thermoluminescence glow curves to identify TL peaks and their associated centers.
• Evaluation of dosimetric properties of the prominent TL peak (peak III) at approximately 220°C.

Main Results:

• The Ba-doped NaCl phosphor (NaCl:Ba(T)), quenched from 750°C, shows a pronounced TL output with a significant glow peak (peak III) around 220°C.
• Peak III is attributed to an impurity-vacancy dipole with a nearby negative ion vacancy, likely located in dislocation regions.
• The dosimetric properties of peak III indicate suitability for radiation measurement.

Conclusions:

• The heat-treated Ba-doped NaCl phosphor (NaCl:Ba(T)) demonstrates efficient thermoluminescence properties.
• The material fulfills key requirements for an effective thermoluminescent dosimeter (TLD).
• Further investigation into the TL centers and dosimetric applications is warranted.