Säteilydosimetrian

Säteilydosimetrian is the Finnish term for radiation dosimetry, the science and technology of measuring and assessing ionizing radiation doses. It is a crucial field in nuclear safety, medical applications, and environmental monitoring. Dosimetry aims to quantify the amount of radiation absorbed by a material or organism, providing essential data for risk assessment and protection.

The fundamental concept in dosimetry is the absorbed dose, defined as the energy deposited per unit mass of material. This is typically measured in units of Gray (Gy) or its subunit, the centiGray (cGy). However, different types of radiation (alpha, beta, gamma, neutrons) have varying biological effects even when delivering the same absorbed dose. Therefore, equivalent dose and effective dose are also important quantities, accounting for the biological harm caused by different radiation types and the sensitivity of various organs. These are measured in Sievert (Sv).

Various instruments and techniques are employed in radiation dosimetry. Personal dosimeters, such as thermoluminescent dosimeters (TLDs) or optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) dosimeters, are worn by individuals to monitor their cumulative exposure. Area monitors, like Geiger-Müller counters or scintillation detectors, measure radiation levels in specific locations. In medical settings, dosimetry is critical for ensuring accurate radiation therapy doses to tumors while minimizing damage to healthy tissues. It also plays a vital role in nuclear power plants and research facilities to ensure worker safety and prevent accidental releases.