Sci-Fri PM: Planning-08: Zero diffusion radiochromic genipin-gelatin dosimeter.

PURPOSE

To develop a zero diffusion radiochromic hydrogel by cross-linking gelatin polymers with genipin, for three-dimensional (3-D) radiation dosimetry.

METHOD AND MATERIALS

Gelatin and genipin were dissolved in distilled water and continuously stirred at 40C for thee hours and then sulfuric acid was acid prior to placing gel in containers. Concentrations of genipin, gelatin and sulfuric acid were varied to determine the optimal gel sensitivity for optical computed tomography (CT). Photon beams (4 MV x-rays, 1×1, 2×2, 3×3 cm) irradiated a 10 cm diameter cylinder of gel. Using a cone beam optical CT scanner at λ = 590 nm, zero diffusion was observed by recording sequential 3D scans separated by 18 hours. Additional evidence was provided by sequential transmission photographs of a cuvette containing a sample that had been exposed to a 0.8 mm diameter, 1 mW, 594 nm, He-Ne laser beam and photobleached.

RESULTS

Radiochromic bleaching is a fast process, complete within seconds of termination of irradiation. Dose sensitivity increases with cross- linking density and sulfuric acid concentration. The initial optical density limits dose sensitivity, requiring approximately 30 Gy for 10 cm diameter samples to have reasonable contrast. More sensitive but darker gels require smaller samples. A comparison of profiles through 3D reconstructed dose distribution showed identical profiles for a time interval of 18 hours. Visually the sample maintained this image for six months when stored at 4C in a dark refrigerator. Transmission photographs of the laser beam image recorded by photobleaching remained constant when stored a 23 C in the dark for ten months.

CONCLUSION

Radiochromic genipin gelatin gels form a permanent and stable image when protected from bright visible light. This result is a new, non-toxic material for 3D dosimetry.