Radiation dose detection using a high-power portable optically stimulated luminescence real-time reading system

Abstract

Optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) reading systems are becoming smaller and capable of real-time detection. To improve real-time and multipurpose radiation dosimetry readings, we built a real-time continuous-wave (RCW) OSL reading system. This system is both small and lightweight, and it employs powerful laser excitation (478 mW/cm2) at the dosimetry probe location. We investigate the possibility of using the RCW mode to read the radiation luminescence (RL) or OSL by using a single-crystal Al2O3:C dosimeter in a low-dose-rate 137Cs γ field. Our results indicate that the RL/OSL follows a stable and uniform distribution. The minimum detected doses associated with the RL, OSL, and RL + OSL signals are 2.1 × 10−2, 3.17 × 10−1, and 5.7 × 10−2 μGy, respectively. This device provides a framework for the future development of applications for practical radiation dose measurements.