OSL using a prototype fibre-mounted sensor and automated reader assembly

Abstract

Application-viable yields of optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) are known to be provided by a number of materials, Al2O3:C nanoDot OSLDs being one of those currently favoured, dominating the world of commercial passive radiation dosimetry. Associated with the use of such materials is the need for versatile, high performance readout devices, opportunities remaining for novel developments in support of the OSL media, as emphasised herein. Present study focuses on the data acquisition capability of an in-house prototype OSL reader, luminescence stimulation being provided by a 30 mW green LED light (spectral mid-point ~ 515 nm). In providing for the additional versatility of making stand-off (at a distance) measurements, the dosimeter sensors (nanoDot OSLD chips) were attached to a polymethyl-methcrylate (PMMA) fibre cable, allowing characterization of the OSL (phosphorescence) at very low risk. Using this prototype instrument, key OSL features from an Al2O3:C sensor medium have been captured, excellent quantitative agreement being found between present results and those of others using other readers. One further feature of the current design is that it also allows investigation of the excitation light wavelength dependence of sensor media that could be competitive to Al2O3:C, there being the additional ability to swap out the OSL sensor, filters and other support components.