Radiation induced degradation of murexide dye in two media for possible use in dosimetric applications

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to study the effect of gamma-rays on murexide (Mx) dye and its possible use as radiation dosimeters in two different dosimetry systems. The first system depends on the Mx dye as a liquid dosimeter. The second dosimetry system depends also on the same dye but as in a gel form, which is more sensitive to gamma-rays. Design/methodology/approach The prepared Mx (solutions/gels) have a considerable two peaks at 324 and 521 nm that upon irradiation, the intensity of these peaks decreases with the increasing radiation dose. Findings The gamma-ray absorbed dose for these dosimeters was found to be up to 2 kGy for the solution samples and 40 Gy for the gels. Radiation chemical yield, dose response function, radiation sensitivity and before and after-irradiation stability under various conditions were discussed and studied. Practical implications It is expected that the radiolysis of the Mx dye can be used as radiation dosimeters in two different dosimetry systems; liquid and gel dosimeters. This can be applied in a wide range of gamma radiation practical industrial applications in water treatment, food irradiation dosimeters, radiotherapy and fresh food irradiation and seed production. Originality/value Both of the prepared Mx dyes, either as solutions or gel samples, can be facilely prepared from commercially, cheap, safe, available chemicals and suitable for useful applied Mx solutions and gels radiation dosimeters.