Synthesis and characterization of magnesium aluminate for dosimetry applications

• Grant number: 21/04433-5
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: January 01, 2022
• End date: December 31, 2022
• Field of knowledge: Physical Sciences and Mathematics - Physics - Nuclear Physics
• Principal Investigator: Neilo Marcos Trindade
• Grantee: Victor Lucas Ramos Granado
• Host Institution: Instituto de Física (IF). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Paulo , SP, Brazil

Abstract

Magnesium aluminate (MgAl2O4) is a material that has a cubic crystal structure and its characteristics make it a candidate for several mechanical and optical applications. Recent studies have shown that this material has luminescent properties with potential application in the area of ionizing radiation dosimetry. The objective of the research is to synthesize MgAl2O4 powders by the polymeric precursor method, which will be characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and differential thermal analysis (DTA). The effects of ionizing radiation (beta and/or X-rays) in MgAl2O4 powders will be investigated using the Thermoluminescence (TL) technique, and in addition the use of Radioluminescence (RL). The parameters to be studied in this step will be repeatability, reproducibility, and fading, in order to contribute to the knowledge of the luminescent properties of magnesium aluminate with a focus on applications in the area of dosimetry.(AU)