This research focused on the synthesis and characterization of Zinc and Yttrium doped Lithium Magnesium Borate (LiMgBO₃) for use in Thermoluminescence dosimetry. The study aimed to develop and assess new materials for improved radiation detection and measurement. This research took place at the Atomic Energy Center Dhaka, Bangladesh.

Graphical abstract of the research

The synthesis of the material was carried out in the Materials Lab at the Atomic Energy Centre, Dhaka, and involved a series of well-structured processes, including grinding, sonication, preheating, high-temperature heating, and pelletization using a hydraulic press. Each step was carefully executed to ensure optimal material properties and uniformity avoiding contamination.

The physical properties of the synthesized material were analyzed using X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM). These advanced characterization techniques revealed notable distinctions between doped and undoped LiMgBO₃, including variations in crystal structure and chemical bonding. The analyses confirmed a monoclinic crystal structure and provided detailed insights into the bonds present, highlighting the impact of doping on the material's structural and chemical properties.

The synthesized pellets were carefully broken into uniformly sized pieces and encapsulated in gelatin capsules to protect them from light exposure. Subsequently, they were irradiated using a Co-60 gamma source at the Institute of Radiation and Polymer Technology, AERE, Savar, Dhaka.

Thermoluminescence (TL) measurements were conducted in the TLD Lab at the Atomic Energy Centre, Dhaka, utilizing the HARSHAW 3500 TL reader.

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1. Synthesis of LiMgBO₃:Zn,Y using solid-state reaction method
2. Characterization of physical properties using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and Transmission electron microscopy (TEM)
3. Gamma irradiation of samples using Co-60 source
4. Thermoluminescence measurements using TLD reader
5. Analysis of glow curves and dosimetric properties

• Successful synthesis of LiMgBO₃:Zn,Y with varying dopant concentrations
• XRD analysis confirmed the formation of desired crystal structure
• FTIR spectroscopy revealed characteristic bonds of the synthesized material
• Thermoluminescence glow curves showed distinct peaks related to electron traps
• Dose response curves demonstrated linear behavior in the studied dose range

The research demonstrated the potential of LiMgBO₃:Zn,Y as a thermoluminescent dosimeter material. Key outcomes include:

• Improved sensitivity compared to undoped LiMgBO₃
• Monoclinic crystal structure with nanoscale crystallite size
• Good linearity in dose response over a wide range
• Potential for use in personal and environmental dosimetry

This study contributes to the ongoing research in developing new and improved materials for radiation dosimetry, which is crucial for radiation protection in various fields including medical physics, nuclear energy, and space exploration.

Based on the findings of this research, future work could include:

• Optimization of dopant concentrations for enhanced sensitivity
• Investigation of other rare earth elements as co-dopants
• Study of the material's response to different types of radiation (e.g., beta, neutron)
• Development of practical dosimeters using the synthesized material
• Long-term stability studies under various environmental conditions
• Exploration of potential applications in medical dosimetry and space radiation monitoring

• "Exploring the Effect of Zinc Doping on the Thermoluminescence Behavior of Lithium Magnesium Borate Exposed to Gamma Radiation," Under Review, Applied Radiation and Isotopes.

This research was conducted at the Atomic Energy Centre Dhaka, Bangladesh, with support from the Bangladesh Atomic Energy Commission and the Military Institute of Science and Technology (MIST). We are grateful for their facilities and resources that made this study possible.