Physico-chemical properties and optimization of the deformable FlexyDos3D radiation dosimeter

M. J. Wheatley*, A. S. Balatinac, J. T. Booth, Y. De Deene

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

10 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Deformable 3D radiation dosimetry is receiving growing interest for the validation of image-guided radiotherapy treatments (IGRT) of moving and deformable targets. Previously, a proof-of-concept of a flexible anthropomorphic 3D dosimeter called 'FlexyDos3D' has been demonstrated. One of the concerns with respect to the FlexyDos3D dosimeter is its dose-response instability.

The effect of different formulations of the dosimeter on its stability were investigated. A stable formulation for the dosimeter was found by optimising the ratios of curing agent and base of the silicone matrix between 3% and 4.5% [w/w] curing agent. The effects of elevated curing temperatures and times upon the dosimetric properties were also investigated and the dose-response was found to be independent of curing times for curing times over an hour at 120 °C. 1H NMR spectra of the dosimeter chemical constituents and the effect of radiation dose were determined. The evaporation and diffusion rates of chloroform in the dosimeter were determined and are the likely cause of the dosimeters depth-dose profile uncertainties.

A composition for a stable silicone dosimeter which can be cured quickly at elevated temperatures was found, demonstrating the potential for 3D printing of patient-specific dosimeters. However, it is suggested that another radical initiator be used in future formulations of the dosimeter.

Original languageEnglish
Article number215028
Pages (from-to)1-13
Number of pages13
JournalPhysics in Medicine and Biology
Volume63
Issue number21
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 7 Nov 2018

Keywords

  • 3D radiation dosimetry
  • deformable dosimeter
  • stability

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