TL/OSL signal of CaSO4:Eu,Ag samples produced by variations of the slow evaporation route

Abstract

The aim of this work was to produce crystals of CaSO4 doped with europium (Eu) and silver (Ag) nanoparticles, by means of three different preparation routes, and to study their applicability in radiation dosimetry by the TL and OSL techniques. The crystals were produced by variations of the slow evaporation route. Samples of CaSO4: Eu,Ag(a) were obtained using europium oxide and silver particles as dopants. For the growth of the crystals of CaSO4:Eu,Ag(b), silver was incorporated in nitrate form. CaSO4:Eu,Ag(c) phosphorus were synthetized mixing europium oxide in a colloidal suspension of silver nanoparticles. Optical characterization confirmed the presence of Eu3þ/Eu2þ in the crystal matrix. Dosimetric characteristics were evaluated after the exposure of the samples to a90Sr/90Y source. The CaSO4:Eu,Ag(a) and CaSO4:Eu,Ag(b) composites presented the most intense signals, the lowest detectable doses, and showed a linear and reproducible dose response, but the CaSO4:Eu,Ag(a) samples showed the best potential for application in TL/OSL dosimetry.