Optimization of time temperature profiles for thermoluminescence glow curve analysis of MgSO4:Dy2O3 powder in TLD applications

Abstract

In the current study, the demand for highly sensitive radiation dosimeters is increasing, prompting the exploration of novel materials for thermoluminescence dosimetry (TLD). This research investigates the potential of MgSO₄:Dy₂O₃ powders as new TLDs, comparing their performance against the commercial dosimeter TLD-100. The samples were prepared: (MgSO₄)_1-x(Dy₂O₃)_x with x = 0.01, 0.05, 0.1, 0.5. These samples were synthesized using thermal treatment at temperatures of 600–1000 °C for 6, 8 h. The samples were characterized to assess crystallization using X-ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscope (FE-SEM), and energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) spectroscopy and mapping. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and raman spectroscopy were employed to verify the physicochemical composition and vibrational characteristics of the thermoluminescent (TL) materials. Optimization and dosimetric evaluations were conducted using X-ray irradiation at low doses, followed by readout with a Harshaw TLD-3500 reader. The XRD patterns confirmed the crystalline nature of the powders. Dosimetric capabilities were assessed by exposing the prepared samples to 2.97 mGy of X-ray radiation for ten cycles. The samples MSD0.5, optimized at 900 °C for 6 h in powder form, exhibited the highest sensitivity and dose response, with TLD readings of 458.95 nC, compared with 213.45 nC for TLD-100. The significant increase in sensitivity, along with stable time temperature profile (TTP) settings, suggests improved accuracy, positioning these materials as promising candidates for high performance radiation dosimetry in both environmental monitoring and medical applications.