DOSEmapper™ in industry

TRUEinvivo Ltd. has developed a technology (called DOSEmapper™) to measure radiation in difficult locations using the proven thermoluminescent properties of micro silica beads.

DOSEmappers™ consist of a patented string of characterised and calibrated silica beads which can detect radiation doses from cGy to kGy to 1mm resolution over any useful length and for any period. The beads are inert and impervious to the atmosphere, water etc. DOSEmappers™ of any length can be inserted or lowered through small ( > 1mm ) apertures into complex and/or dangerous environments.

After the beads have been removed from their detecting location the automated DOSEmapper™ Reader allows users to extract results very quickly. Alternatively, the DOSEmappers™ can be returned to TRUEinvivo for a postal reading service.

TRUEinvivo®’s DOSEmapper™ technology has proven its versatility beyond radiotherapy, demonstrating its efficacy in the challenging field of nuclear decommissioning. Developed by Dr Shakardokht Jafari (Shakar), the patented and UKCA and CE-marked DOSEmapper™ technology provides precise, internal invivo radiation measurements that have been successfully applied in confidential nuclear decommissioning environments. This cutting-edge technology, initially designed to reduce patient harm in radiotherapy, is now contributing to safer and more efficient decommissioning processes.

In the medical industry, we measure doses in soft, floppy pipes,
but in nuclear decommissioning,
we need detectors that can squeeze into narrow, rigid pipes
because not every detector can navigate the tight spaces!

The oil and gas sector faces notable challenges in radiation dosimetry due to the presence of naturally occurring radioactive materials (NORM), such as uranium, thorium, and their decay products. These radioactive substances tend to accumulate in pipelines, equipment, and production facilities, creating potential radiation exposure risks for workers. Traditional dosimetry techniques often fall short of the industry’s demands because of the complex monitoring environments and tough working conditions. This proposal examines the potential of using micro silica bead thermoluminescent dosimeters (TLDs) to overcome these challenges and considers the key factors for successful implementation.

In the oil and gas industry, radiation exposure primarily results from NORM, which can accumulate in scale, sludge, and produced water. The main challenges related to dosimetry in this sector include:

1. Challenging monitoring conditions: The complex layouts and confined spaces within oil and gas facilities make it difficult to effectively deploy standard dosimeters.
2. Harsh environmental factors: Exposure to high temperatures, humidity, and corrosive materials can damage conventional dosimeters, leading to inaccurate measurements.
3. Extended exposure tracking: The industry needs dosimeters that can reliably record cumulative radiation doses over long periods, without requiring frequent maintenance or replacement.
4. Ensuring worker safety: Accurate and dependable dosimetry is crucial for protecting the safety of workers operating in these demanding environments.

Micro silica bead thermoluminescent dosimeters (TLDs) present several key advantages, making them a highly effective solution for radiation monitoring in the oil and gas industry:

In the electronics industry, ensuring that devices can withstand radiation is critical, especially for components used in aerospace, defence, and high-radiation environments like nuclear power plants. Radiation hardness testing determines how well electronics can tolerate and operate in radiation-heavy environments. The DOSEmapper™ system is a valuable tool in this field, providing accurate dosimetry to assess the radiation resistance of various materials and components.

Micro-silica bead thermoluminescent dosimeters (TLDs), which are central to the DOSEmapper™ system, are ideal for measuring radiation exposure in electronic components. These dosimeters offer high sensitivity and precision, making them excellent for evaluating the radiation hardness of semiconductors, integrated circuits, and other electronic devices. By accurately mapping radiation levels, engineers can test the performance and degradation of components under specific conditions, identifying which materials and designs can withstand radiation exposure over time.

For space missions, radiation exposure can affect both crew members and onboard electronics. The DOSEmapper™ system helps mitigate these risks by providing real-time radiation data, allowing for better protective measures during high-exposure events like solar storms. Additionally, in commercial aviation, where cosmic radiation exposure is higher for pilots and frequent flyers, DOSEmapper™ can be used to monitor accumulated doses, helping the industry maintain safety standards and manage long-term exposure risks.

Cosmic radiation poses significant challenges for industries such as aviation, space exploration, and high-altitude research. These sectors require precise radiation monitoring to protect personnel, sensitive equipment, and spacecraft from the harmful effects of cosmic radiation. DOSEmapper™ provides a cutting-edge solution for monitoring and assessing cosmic radiation exposure, offering critical data for safe operations in these environments.

Cosmic radiation consists of high-energy particles from outer space that can penetrate the Earth’s atmosphere, especially at higher altitudes. For astronauts, pilots, and equipment in aerospace, prolonged exposure to this radiation can result in health risks or equipment malfunction. The micro-silica bead thermoluminescent dosimeters (TLDs) within the DOSEmapper™ system are designed to measure these high-energy particles with exceptional accuracy. The small size of the TLDs allows them to be deployed in tight or confined spaces, such as within spacecraft or high-altitude planes, ensuring that radiation levels are continuously monitored.

The defence industry faces unique challenges in radiation dosimetry, requiring accurate, robust solutions for environments involving nuclear materials, advanced weapons systems, and radioactive sources. Traditional dosimeters often struggle to meet the demands for precision, durability, and functionality in harsh, dynamic conditions. Micro silica bead thermoluminescent dosimeters (TLDs) offer a promising solution to these challenges, providing critical advantages for military radiation monitoring.

Radiation exposure in military settings can arise from sources such as nuclear weapons maintenance, radiological detection equipment, and research facilities handling radioactive materials. Key dosimetry challenges include:

1. High-stakes environments: Precision is crucial in military radiation monitoring, as inaccurate measurements can have severe consequences.
2. Harsh and dynamic conditions: Dosimeters must function reliably under extreme temperatures, shock, vibration, and exposure to chemicals.
3. Long-term and real-time monitoring: Solutions are needed that provide both long-term cumulative dose monitoring and near-real-time feedback in rapidly changing environments.
4. Personnel safety: Reliable dosimetry is essential to ensure the safety of military and civilian personnel in radiation-prone areas.

Micro silica bead TLDs are uniquely suited for radiation monitoring in military applications due to their advanced features:

1. High sensitivity and accuracy: Offering precise measurements, micro silica bead TLDs ensure accurate radiation detection, critical for military operations.
2. Exceptional durability: These dosimeters can withstand extreme conditions—high heat, shock, vibration, and chemical exposure—ensuring dependable performance in challenging environments.
3. Long-term monitoring: Capable of retaining dose data over extended periods, these TLDs are ideal for continuous monitoring in radiation-prone areas.
4. Versatility and deployment flexibility: Their compact size allows integration into personal protective equipment or defence technologies, offering comprehensive radiation monitoring across diverse settings.
5. Cost-effectiveness: With low production costs and long-term reliability, micro silica bead TLDs provide a cost-effective solution for large-scale use in military radiation monitoring programs.

Accurate radiation monitoring is essential for protecting the environment and ensuring public health. The DOSEmapper™ system is highly suited for tracking radiation levels in various environmental settings, including areas impacted by industrial activities, nuclear facilities, and natural sources of radiation. Its precision and adaptability make it an invaluable tool for continuous radiation surveillance and environmental safety assessments.

Micro-silica bead thermoluminescent dosimeters (TLDs), the core technology of DOSEmapper™, are capable of detecting and mapping radiation levels across large geographical areas. This capability is especially useful in regions exposed to radiation from naturally occurring radioactive materials (NORM), industrial pollutants, or fallout from nuclear accidents. The small size and durability of the DOSEmapper™ dosimeters allow them to be deployed in harsh environmental conditions, where traditional monitoring systems might fail.

The DOSEmapper™ system not only helps in identifying potential radiation hazards but also plays a key role in mitigating their effects, ensuring safer and more sustainable environments for both humans and wildlife.

The food industry relies on radiation sterilization to eliminate pathogens and extend shelf life. Accurate radiation dosimetry is essential to ensure food safety and quality. Micro silica bead thermoluminescent dosimeters (TLDs) offer a promising solution to meet these dosimetry challenges.

In food irradiation, precise radiation measurement is crucial to:

1. Ensure safety and quality: Accurate dosimetry guarantees that sufficient radiation is applied to eliminate harmful microorganisms without compromising food quality.
2. Maintain consistency: Reliable dosimetry ensures uniform treatment across large batches, maintaining product consistency.
3. Comply with regulations: Adhering to safety standards and regulations requires precise radiation measurement to prevent over- or under-irradiation.

Micro silica bead TLDs offer several benefits for radiation dosimetry in food irradiation:

1. High sensitivity and accuracy: These dosimeters provide precise measurements, essential for ensuring effective sterilization without compromising food quality.
2. Exceptional durability: Silica-based micro-beads are highly resistant to harsh conditions, including exposure to chemicals and extreme temperatures, ensuring reliable performance in challenging environments.
3. Long-term monitoring capability: Micro silica bead TLDs can retain dose information over extended periods, making them ideal for ongoing monitoring in environments where continuous exposure assessment is necessary.
4. Versatility and deployment flexibility: Their small size allows for deployment in various settings, from integration into food packaging to incorporation into sterilization equipment, ensuring comprehensive monitoring in diverse environments.
5. Cost-effectiveness: Given their durability and low production cost, micro silica bead TLDs offer a cost-effective solution for widespread use in food irradiation dosimetry programs.

By leveraging the advanced features of micro silica bead TLDs, the food industry can enhance irradiation processes, ensuring safety, quality, and regulatory compliance.