Which type of dosimeter is often preferred for long-term monitoring of radiation exposure?

The Optically Stimulable Luminescent dosimeter (OSL) is preferred for long-term monitoring of radiation exposure due to its key characteristics that make it suitable for this application. OSL dosimeters have the ability to provide accurate and reliable measurements of radiation exposure over extended periods. They can be read multiple times without losing the recorded data, allowing for a more flexible approach to monitoring.

OSLs are sensitive and can detect a wide range of radiation types while maintaining stability and minimal fading over time. This stability ensures that the readings reflect true exposure levels, even after being stored for long durations. Additionally, the ability of OSL devices to be re-analyzed makes them ideal for environments where long-term monitoring is required, as they can be assessed without the need for replacing the dosimeter.

In contrast, other types of dosimeters like the Thermoluminescent dosimeters (TLD), film badges, and electronic dosimeters each have limitations when it comes to long-term exposure monitoring. TLDs can only be read once after exposure, as heating them to measure radiation results in the loss of stored energy. Film badges require processing and can degrade over time, impacting measurement accuracy. While electronic dosimeters provide real-time data and can be effective for