Advanced LiF technology for the assessment of patient exposure in diagnostic radiology

The investigations deal with the search for a passive dosemeter applicable to patient dosimetry in diagnostic radiology, which meets particularly the requirements of a low detection limit and an adequate energy response, as well as sufficiently high precision and reliability. A thermoluminescence dosimetry (TLD) technology is reported that fits these requirements. The detector material consists of lithium fluoride co-doped with copper (LiF:Mg,Cu,P). The detectors, originating from China, are shown to exhibit high radiation sensitivity exceeding that of conventional lithium fluoride, LiF:Mg,Ti (TLD-100), by far. Based on the new technology a detection threshold of 0.1 mu Gy, precision as low as less than or equal to 1% (1 sigma(ret)) and strict linearity of the TL signal-dose relationship were found, for doses up to at least 1 mGy.