Development of magnesium tetraborate as a material for thermoluminescence dosimetry

Magnesium tetraborate is a candidate phosphor for a laser-heated thermoluminescence (TL) dosimetry system which is under development. Near tissue-equivalent radiation absorption properties and reported sensitivity to low radiation doses offer advantages over commonly employed LiF phosphors.

Sintered wafers suitable for routine measurement were prepared. The effects of powder preparation conditions and activator concentration on TL sensitivity were investigated. Samples with additional impurities (co-doped samples) were prepared in order to increase sensitivity through coactivation or sensitization effects. TL emission spectra were employed to evaluate the effects of co-doping.