What type of material is used in an OSL dosimeter?

An optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) dosimeter utilizes aluminum oxide as the primary sensing material. When exposed to ionizing radiation, the aluminum oxide absorbs energy and then releases this energy as light when stimulated by a specific wavelength of light, typically from a laser or other light source. This light emission is proportional to the amount of radiation the dosimeter has been exposed to, allowing for precise dose measurements.

Aluminum oxide is favored in OSL dosimetry due to its sensitivity, stability, and linear response over a wide range of radiation doses, making it an effective choice for both personal monitoring and environmental radiation surveillance. Its ability to retain the stimulated luminescence signal over time contributes to the accurate assessment of exposure.

Other materials listed have different characteristics and applications. Polyethylene, for instance, is primarily used as a radiation shielding material, while copper is often used in electrical components or thermal applications. Silicon, meanwhile, is commonly found in electronics and semiconductors but does not have the luminescent properties that make aluminum oxide suitable for dosimetry.