Assessment of existing emergency dosimetry protocols for electronic devices - a feasibility study to support emergency response

Abstract

This study examines the potential use of components from electronic appliances as emergency dosimeters. The research aims to evaluate the accuracy and reliability of these electronic components in providing precise dose estimations during radiological incidents. Surface mounted devices (SMD) resistors were extracted from a previously irradiated CD-ROM and laptop, as well as pieces of the laptop's screen glass. The irradiation was carried out using a Co-60 source and MTS detectors (LiF:Mg,Ti) were used for the reference. The optically stimulated signal from the element samples was measured using a standardized protocol. Accidental dose was reconstructed using elements extracted from printed circuit boards of a CD-ROM and a laptop using the universal signal fading correction of SMDs extracted from mobile phones. The results showed high efficiency even seven days after exposure. Additionally, the results obtained from the tested SMD samples were comparable to those obtained from the MTS detectors. However, the study found that laptop screen glass samples were slightly overestimated, indicating a need for further investigation into their non-radiation induced signals and fading characteristics.In summary, the study demonstrates that certain laptop and CD-ROM components have dosimetric potential as alternative dosimeters in emergency situations compared to mobile phones, emphasizing their replaceability and low cost. The findings support the feasibility of incorporating electronic components for rapid dose assessment and triage in radiological emergencies, thereby contributing to enhanced emergency response preparedness.