Intercomparisons of absorbed dose and dose distribution for X- irradiations using mailed LiF thermoluminescent dosimeters

Abstract

Intercomparisons of absorbed doses and dose distributions for X-rays with effective energies 80-130 keV, using mailed LiF thermoluminescent dosemeters, have been carried out as a part of a co-operative programme of research in Europe on late effects of radiation. The studies have demonstrated a number of discrepancies in the absolute dosimetry. In only six out of fourteen institutes did the absorbed dose agree to +or-5% relative to the standard value; with regard to the dose distribution, in only five out of thirteen institutes were mice irradiations performed in conditions of uniform irradiation. The results of the intercomparisons demonstrate the need for standardization of the X-ray dosimetry if a meaningful comparison of biological results is to be achieved.