Which of the following is a disadvantage of thermoluminescent dosimeters (TLDs)?

Thermoluminescent dosimeters (TLDs) are widely used for measuring ionizing radiation exposure, and one notable characteristic of TLDs is that they require heat processing to read the measurements. When TLDs are exposed to radiation, they absorb energy and store it. To determine the amount of radiation the dosimeter has collected, it needs to be heated, which causes it to release the stored energy in the form of light. This light emission is then measured and corresponds to the amount of radiation exposure.

While this heat processing is essential for retrieving the dosimetery data, it can also be seen as a disadvantage since it adds an extra step in the measurement process that can introduce potential delays, require additional equipment, and necessitate careful handling and calibration. Unlike some other radiation detection methods that provide immediate results, TLDs need this post-exposure processing to yield accurate readings, making them less convenient in situations where rapid results are required.