Real-time gamma dosimetry using PMMA optical fibres for applications in the sterilization industry

Abstract

The use of polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA)-based plastic optical fibre as an intrinsic real-time gamma dosimeter is investigated. The radiation-induced attenuation of the fibres is monitored in situ during the course of irradiation. The PMMA fibre exhibited a linear radiation- induced attenuation response at various wavelengths for a dose range of 50 Gy to 50 kGy. The sensitivity, ranging from 0.4 dBm−1 kGy−1 to 0.03 dBm−1 kGy−1, is wavelength dependent, with high sensitivity at the lower wavelengths.