Optically Stimulated Luminescence: Fundamentals and Applications

Optically stimulated luminescence has developed into one of the leading optical techniques for the measurement and detection of ionizing radiation. This text covers, in a readable manner, advanced modern applications of the technique, how it can play a useful role in different areas of dosimetry and how to approach the challenges presented when working with optically stimulated luminescence.

The six chapters are as follows:

• Introduction, including a short history of OSL and details of successful applications
• Theory and Practical Aspects
• Personal Dosimetry
• Space Dosimetry
• Medical Dosimetry
• Other Applications and Concepts, including retrospective and accident dosimetry, environmental monitoring and UV dosimetry

Throughout the book, the underlying theory is discussed on an as-needed basis for a complete understanding of the phenomena, but with an emphasis of the practical applications of the technique. The authors also give background information and relevant key references on each method, inviting the reader to explore deeper into the subject independently.

Postgraduates, researchers, and those involved with radiation dosimetry will find this book particularly useful. The material is both relevant and accessible for both specialists and those new to the field, therefore is fundamental to any academic interested in modern advances of the subject.

Stephen W. S. McKeever is Vice President for Research and Technology Transfer at Oklahoma State University (USA). He is also a Regents Professor in the department of physics. He was named a Noble Research Fellow in Optical Materials in 1987. Professor McKeever was also named the MOST (More Oklahoma Science and Technology) Chair of Experimental Physics in 1999. He is widely known for his research in optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) and thermoluminescence (TL) with specific applications to radiation dosimetry. Major accomplishments in recent years include leading a research team that the developed optically stimulated luminescence as a means of personal radiation dosimetry. The patented technology was used commercially to develop a radiation dosimeter system currently used worldwide. His special interests are space radiation dosimetry to monitor radiation doses to astronauts on long-duration space flights, such as a manned mission to Mars. He has authored or co-authored over 180 scientific publications and five books.

Eduardo G. Yukihara is an Assistant Professor at Oklahoma State University. He has been involved with research on OSL since 2000, and his research group currently focuses on the development of the OSL technique in various fields such as space dosimetry, medical dosimetry, accident dosimetry, neutron dosimetry, as well as investigations in basic properties of OSL materials. He has presented material relating to this book to students in short courses, colloquia, a conference summer school, and invited conference presentations. In addition, he has been invited to write a review paper on applications of OSL in medicine and biology to the journal Physics in Medicine and Biology.