Heating Rate Optimization for Enhanced Precision in Thermoluminescent Dosimetry

Area of Science:

• Physics
• Materials Science
• Radiation Detection

Background:

• Thermoluminescent dosimeters (TLDs) are crucial for radiation measurement.
• Heating rate significantly impacts TLD precision by influencing signal noise and thermal quenching.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the optimal heating rate for TLDs to maximize precision.
• To investigate the effects of heating rates on integrated peak counts and kinetic parameters.

Main Methods:

• Evaluated heating rates from 1 °C s⁻1 to 20 °C s⁻1.
• Performed peak deconvolution and used the variable heating rate method for kinetic analysis.
• Constructed time-temperature profiles with linear heating ramps.

Main Results:

• An optimal heating rate of 4 °C s⁻1 was identified for minimizing variance in integrated peak counts.
• Peak temperature and intensity showed exponential dependence on heating rate.
• Kinetic parameters from deconvolution and variable heating rate methods showed consistency.

Conclusions:

• Heating rate optimization is critical for reliable TLD measurements.
• Both signal noise and thermal quenching effects impact precision, with quenching more significant at higher rates.
• Dosimeter material and glow curve complexity also influence measurement accuracy.