Opportunities for improving the performance of LCV micelle gel dosimeters: I. Preliminary investigation

Abstract

The effects of the various components of leuco crystal violet (LCV) micelle gels on dose sensitivity and initial colour are tested. Dose sensitivity and gel turbidity are influenced by tri-chloro acetic acid (TCAA) concentration, with the highest dose sensitivity obtained at ∼21.5 mM. Increasing Triton x-100 (Txl00) concentration improved dose sensitivity but, unfortunately, increased initial colour of the gel. Using Cetyl Trimethyl Ammonium Bromide (CTAB) in place of Tx100 produces gels that are nearly colourless prior to irradiation, but reduces the dose sensitivity. The effects of chlorinated species on dose sensitivity are tested using 2,2,2-trichloroethanol (TCE), chloroform, and 1,1,1-trichloro-2-methyl-2-propanol hemihydrate (TCMPH). TCE gives the largest improvement in dose sensitivity and is recommended for use in micelle gel dosimeters because it is less volatile and safer to use than chloroform. A new gel containing CTAB as the surfactant and TCE gives improved dose sensitivity compared to previous LCV micelle gels.