# Investigation of the Use of Naturally Grown CaCO3 Crystals on Rocks as a Radiation Dosimeter via Thermoluminescence Method

## TL;DR

This study explores the potential of naturally grown calcium carbonate crystals as radiation dosimeters using thermoluminescence.

## Contribution

The study identifies natural CaCO3 crystals as promising, reusable radiation dosimeters with stable thermoluminescence properties.

## Key findings

- The crystals show a broad linear dose-response range from 2 to 576 Gy.
- The dosimetric peak remains stable despite repeated use and ambient fading.
- The crystals exhibit strong reusability with a standard deviation of 2.71%.

## Abstract

This study investigates the thermoluminescence (TL) characteristics of naturally occurring CaCO3 crystals found on rocks collected from the Akçatekir region of Adana, Turkey. The research evaluates some of the radiation dosimeter parameters such as dose–response, heating rate, reusability, and fading. Both crystals demonstrate favorable TL properties with distinct TL glow curves. One of the crystals exhibits two prominent TL peaks at approximately 90°C and 235°C, while the other shows peaks around 115°C and 300°C. Both crystals display a broad linear dose–response range from 2 to 576 Gy. Although repeated experiments lead to a reduction in the low‐temperature peak, the dosimetric peak (near 220°C) remains largely unaffected. Additionally, TL intensity decreases as the waiting time between irradiation and measurement increases. However, the fading process does not compromise the structural integrity of the crystals or introduce new TL peaks. Given their wide linear dose–response range, strong reusability with standard deviation of 2.71%, and stable dosimetric peak under ambient conditions, these crystals appear to be promising candidates for dosimetric applications.

This study investigates the thermoluminescence (TL) characteristics of naturally occurring crystals found on rocks. The research evaluates some of the radiation dosimeter parameters such as radiation dose, heating rate, reusability, and fading. The crystals demonstrate favorable TL properties and appear to be promising candidates for dosimetric applications.