Which dosimeter emits light as part of its function?

The optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) dosimeter is designed to measure radiation exposure by utilizing a specific interaction with light. When the OSL dosimeter is exposed to ionizing radiation, it traps electrons in a crystal lattice structure. Upon subsequent exposure to light, typically in the form of a laser, these trapped electrons are released from their energy states and emit light in a process called luminescence. The amount of light emitted is proportional to the radiation dose received, allowing for an accurate assessment of exposure levels.

This characteristic makes OSL dosimeters especially useful in monitoring radiation exposure over time, as they can be read long after the exposure has occurred without needing immediate processing, unlike some other types of dosimeters. The ability to emit light as a result of previous radiation exposure is a key feature that distinguishes the OSL dosimeter from other types such as film dosimeters, thermoluminescent dosimeters (TLDs), or ionization chambers, which operate on different principles of radiation detection.