Evaluation of dose uncertainty in radiation processing using EPR spectroscopy and butylated hydroxytoluene rods as dosimetry system

• Published in: Radiation physics and chemistry (Oxford, England : 1993) England : 1993), 2017-12, Vol.141, p.50-56
• Main Authors: Alkhorayef, M., Mansour, A., Sulieman, A., Alnaaimi, M., Alduaij, M., Babikir, E., Bradley, D.A.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: BHT; Confidence intervals; Dosimeters; Dosimetry; Electron paramagnetic resonance; EPR; Gamma irradiation; Gamma rays; Radiation; Radiation dosage; Radiation processing; Rods; Uncertainty; Uncertainty measurement
• ISSN: 0969-806X; 1879-0895
• DOI: 10.1016/j.radphyschem.2017.05.029

Butylatedhydroxytoluene (BHT) rods represent a potential dosimeter in radiation processing, with readout via electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy. Among the possible sources of uncertainty are those associated with the performance of the dosimetric medium and the conditions under which measurements are made, including sampling and environmental conditions. Present study makes estimate of the uncertainties, investigating physical response in different resonance regions. BHT, a white crystalline solid with a melting point of between 70–73°C, was investigated using 60Co gamma irradiation over the dose range 0.1–100kGy. The intensity of the EPR signal increases linearly in the range 0.1–35kGy, the uncertainty budget for high doses being 3.3% at the 2σ confidence level. The rod form represents an excellent alternative dosimeter for high level dosimetry, of small uncertainty compared to powder form. •The dose uncertainty in radiation processing was investigated using BHT rods and EPR Spectroscopy.•The uncertainty budget for high doses being 3.3% at the 2σ confidence level.•Rod form BHT represents a viable high dose dosimeter.