Evaluation of thermoluminescent dosimeters (TLDs) of two different designs for beta particle and low energy photon dosimetry

The purpose of this research was to compare the response of the thermoluminescent dosimeters (TLDs) currently used at Martin Marietta Energy Systems with that of a newly designed TLD which is now under consideration. The new TLD consists of a thicker chip in element #3 and a thinner, more opaque mylar filter over this same element. The goals were to determine if the new (proposed) TLD would perform significantly different than the old (current) TLD when measuring dose equivalents from beta particles and low energy photons (x-rays) and to find out if changing from the old to the new design would require that modifications be made to the calibration factors currently used in the dose calculation algorithm. To accomplish these objectives, tests were performed using both types of dosimeters placed under identical conditions. Their responses were then compared and analyzed. It was concluded that the new TLDs would allow for the detection of lower levels of radiation and give more precise readouts at very low (i.e., background) levels in addition to the obvious advantages of the new design, such as, a thicker, more durable chip and a more opaque mylar. It was also determined that no adjustments to the calibration factors would be necessary in switching to the new design.