Preliminary results of a small X-ray irradiator for equivalent dose estimation

Abstract

In most established method for luminescence dating, the ratio of ⁹⁰Sr/⁹⁰Y radionuclides has been employed to provide reference laboratory doses to sample. Recently a small X-ray irradiator (Varian VF-50J) was introduced as an alternative to the traditionally used radioactive sources. Test results are presented whether the use of the small X-ray irradiator is possible in the dating technique. Aspects of the assessment of the X-ray irradiator include consideration of the measured optically stimulated luminescence signal and the relationship between X-ray tube currents and dose rates, as well as the dependence of equivalent dose for various dose rates. The test performances are assessed in relation to use with heated quartz.