Alanine pellet dosimeters, manufactured by Harwell Dosimeters (UK), are widely recognized for their stability and precision in reference dosimetry for gamma, x-ray, and electron irradiation facilities. Their response is based on the formation of stable free radicals in the alanine matrix upon irradiation, with the absorbed dose measured via electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy.
With a dose range from 2 Gy to 100 kGy, alanine dosimeters offer minimal energy dependence, excellent long-term stability, near water equivalence, and a well-understood dosimetric response. These properties make them highly suitable for establishing and maintaining traceability to national and international standards. As such, they are frequently used in calibration, validation, and quality assurance applications.
At Risø HDRL, alanine pellets are employed as our reference transfer dosimeter. All calibrations are performed in accordance with the guidelines of CIRM 29, ensuring consistency, traceability, and alignment with globally recognized best practices.
Alanine dosimetry systems are integral to many reference dosimetry protocols and play a critical role in verifying dose accuracy in industrial radiation processing. They are also applied in medical settings, including radiation therapy dosimetry, where high accuracy and tissue equivalence are essential.
