Characterization of a new ionization chamber in radiotherapy beams: angular dependence and variation of response with distance.

A new double faced ionization chamber was constructed at the Calibration Laboratory of IPEN. It has different collecting electrode materials: aluminum and graphite. It was irradiated in standard radiotherapy beams ((60)Co and X-rays). The response variation with distance and the angular dependence of this ionization chamber were evaluated. It was verified that the chamber response follows the inverse square law within a maximum variation of 11.2% in relation to the reference value. For the angular dependence it showed good agreement with international standards.

Evaluation of the voltage quantities measured with different noninvasive meters for quality control at a calibration laboratory.

In this work the peak kilovoltage (kVp), practical peak voltage (PPV) and air kerma rate were measured with the noninvasive meters Radcal Accu-kV® Diagnostic Sensor™ model 40×12-W, and PTW Diavolt. The results were compared in order to ensure the quality control, compare the meters and establish the new quantity PPV, at the Calibration Laboratory of IPEN. These tests were performed using the standard diagnostic radiology quality beam RQR5, and the results are in good agreement.

A double faced ionization chamber for quality control in diagnostic radiology beams.

The development of new radiation detectors of low cost but with adequate materials is a very important task for countries that have to import ionization chambers such as Brazil. A special double faced ionization chamber was developed for use in conventional diagnostic radiology beams and computed tomography energy ranges. The results show that this new chamber present applicability in conventional diagnostic radiology and computed tomography quality control programs.