γ-Ray dosimeters based on magnetic nanoparticles in graphene oxide nanocomposites: novel resistive dosimeters

The outstanding properties of graphene oxide and its magnetic nanocomposites are triggering extensive interests of scientists, whereas how to fully optimized the integrated functions for the fabrication of gamma ray sensor systems with unique attributes remains to be a challenge. Here, we report a facile approach to produce Fe3O4/ graphene oxide nanocomposites in polyvinyl acetate and polymethyl methacrylate (Fe3O4/GO/PVAc & Fe3O4/GO/PMMA) which showed the integrated properties of excellent processability, high sensitivity for gamma ray and good solubility. Photophysical interactions between Fe3O4, graphene oxide nanosheets and polymers have been investigated and compared using ohmic contact detectors with gold electroplated electrodes. Real-time dosimetric responses of the sensors such as repeatability, sensitivity and the linearity of dose rate response against gamma radiation source were also assessed. An increase in the photoelectric response and gamma harvesting properties in prepared sensors was observed with respect to non-magnetic GO sensors.