Fluorescent nuclear track detectors as a tool for ion-beam therapy research

• Published in: Radiation measurements Vol. 56; pp. 267 - 272
• Main Authors: Greilich, S., Osinga, J.-M., Niklas, M., Lauer, F.M., Klimpki, G., Bestvater, F., Bartz, J.A., Akselrod, M.S., Jäkel, O.
• Format: Journal Article Conference Proceeding
• Language: English
• Published: Kidlington Elsevier Ltd 01.09.2013; Elsevier
• Subjects: Aluminum oxide; Confocal microscopy; Detectors; Earth sciences; Earth, ocean, space; Exact sciences and technology; Geochronology; Ion beams; Isotope geochemistry. Geochronology; Lasers; Luminescent dosimetry; Microscopes; Radiation imaging; Radiation measurement; Therapy; Three dimensional; Radiation imaging; Confocal microscopy; Luminescent dosimetry; Aluminum oxide; alumina; detection; efficiency; laser methods; radiation; ions; particles
• ISSN: 1350-4487; 1879-0925
• DOI: 10.1016/j.radmeas.2013.01.033

Fluorescent nuclear track detectors based on Al2O3:C,Mg with their excellent efficiency for detection of heavy charged particles and full 3D information from laser scanning microscopy allow a multitude of issues related to ion-beam cancer therapy to be tackled. A recently established read out protocol enables the utilization of a commercial microscope similar to those available in many life-science environments. This contribution illustrates the approach, its potential and limitations, as well as applications in clinical ion beams. ► Fluorescent nuclear track detectors (FNTDs) are based on alumina. ► They represent a unique research tool for ion beam cancer therapy. ► We present a protocol for FNTD read out using a commercial laser scanning microscope.