4.1 The radiochromic optical waveguide dosimetry system provides a means of measuring absorbed dose in materials. Under the influence of ionizing radiation such as photons, chemical reactions take place in the radiochromic optical waveguide creating and/or modifying optical absorbance bands in the visible region of the spectrum. Optical response is determined at selected wavelengths using the equations in 3.1.6. Examples of appropriate wavelengths for the analysis for specific dosimetry systems are provided by their manufacturers and in Refs (1) through (5).

4.2 In the application of a specific dosimetry system, absorbed dose is determined by use of a calibration curve traceable to national or international standards.

4.3 The absorbed dose determined is usually specified in water. Absorbed dose in other materials may be determined by applying the conversion factors discussed in ISO/ASTM Guide 51261.

NOTE 1-For a comprehensive discussion of various dosimetry methods applicable to the radiation types and energies discussed in this practice, see ICRU Reports 14, 17, and 34.

4.4 These dosimetry systems commonly are applied in the industrial radiation processing of a variety of products, for example, the sterilization of medical devices and radiation processing of foods (4-6).