Radiation detection is a process that requires the use of specialized instruments. The most common type of radiation detector is a Geiger-Mueller (GM) tube, also known as a Geiger counter. Dosimeters, or radiation plates, are also used by workers who are regularly exposed to radiation-filled environments. These devices help track the level of radiation exposure and alert people when the radiation levels exceed the threshold.
In addition, the dose rate decreases with increasing distance from the source, resulting in lower levels of detected radiation. Radiation has many applications and is used by approximately 23 million workers worldwide. To accurately detect radiation from tissue, it is necessary to convert certain factors. This article aims to provide an in-depth look at a smartphone application for radiation dosimetry that is available for popular devices and is calibrated using a protocol typically used for commercial radiation detectors.
The advantage of using a smartphone application for radiation detection is that it is inexpensive, easy to use, and accessible since many people own smartphones. By regularly distributing high-quality radiation badges to employees, it is possible to minimize risk before it's too late. However, alpha radiation cannot be detected by smartphones due to the phone case, lens, and cover blocking it. A Radiation Isotope Identifier Device (RIID) is a type of radiation detector that can analyze the energy spectrum of radiation in order to identify the specific radioactive material (radionuclide) emitting the radiation.
This device contains air, an electrical conductor, and a low-voltage central anode to help detect radiation. Complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) imaging sensors used in smartphone cameras can detect photons of ionizing radiation such as high-energy x-rays and gamma rays. To use smartphones as radiation alarms, their responses to radiation must be carefully characterized. Smartphone applications can be used as an alternative to regular replacement of radiation badges. This error analysis shows that the RadioActivityCounter application can effectively function as a radiation detector at high doses; however, at low doses, the application returns a high error percentage.
