Optically stimulated luminescence dosimetry using natural and synthetic materials

The application of optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) for use in radiation dosimetry is reviewed. A broad description is given of OSL techniques developed at Riso National Laboratory and at Oklahoma State University, and recent collaborative investigations on the properties of a variety of natural and synthetic materials are reported. A phenomenological description of OSL is presented, and examples of recent applications are discussed. Some basic studies of OSL are described, from a variety of materials, including Al2O3:C, natural quartz and feldspars extracted from building materials, and unseparated materials such as bricks and porcelain items.