Developing a novel radiosensitive metal ion-loaded PVA/NBT film as medical low-dose X-ray dosimeter

The hazards associated with ionizing radiation exposure has spurred the advancement of reliable and precise dosimetry techniques. Currently, there still lacks a viable and efficient dosimetry methods for measuring radiation expo-sure within low dosage ranges. This raises a concern in certain domains, such as radiodiagnostics and practitioners that employ low-dose X-ray radiation. Hence, this study aims to produce PVA/NBT film dosimeters that are capable in effectively detecting low dosages of X-ray radiation. Moreover, PVA/NBT films loaded by various metal ions will also be studied. The films were synthesized by the solvent casting method. The films were subjected to X-ray irradiation with a dosage ranging from 0 to 2.626 mGy. The films were further examined through EDX analysis, UV–Vis spectroscopy, optical density measurement, FTIR spectroscopy, and SEM analysis. It was observed that X-ray radiation exposure caused a broadening in the UV–Vis absorbance spectrum, which enhances its light absorption capability and making it more opaque. Furthermore, the careful selection of metal ion enhanced the film's ability in detecting X-ray radiation. Silver-loaded films were proven to significantly enhance the linearity and sensitivity of the PVA/NBT dosimeter film. These findings showed that silver-loaded PVA/NBT films exhibit a promising prospect for further applications in the domain of medical radiation. [Display omitted] •The incorporation of metal ions increases the linear R2 value of the PVA/NBT film.•The films were synthesized by the solvent casting method.•There is a broadening in the UV–Vis absorbance spectrum of the film in response to X-ray exposure.