Synthesis of CaF2 doped with Tl and investigation of its dosimetric properties

Thallium doped calcium fluoride (CaF2:Tl) nanoparticles were produced for the first time by using the hydrothermal method. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscope (SEM) were utilized to analyze the synthesized material. The particle size of about 45 nm was evaluated using XRD data which was supported by the SEM images. Thermoluminescence glow curve of this nanophosphor exhibits three overlapping glow peaks at 433, 466 and 505◦ K. The optimum concentration of activator was found at 1 mol% for TL responses relative to gamma rays of 60Co.The prepared nanoparticles exhibit a linear dose response up to 1000 Gy absorbed dose relative to gamma rays of 60Co source. Other dosimetric features of this novel phosphor are also presented and discussed.