Novel GTA-PVA Fricke gels for three-dimensional dose mapping in radiotherapy

Abstract One of the most recent and promising developments in radiotherapy dosimetry was the introduction of 3D radiation-sensitive gels. These gels present tissue equivalent composition and density, so they also serve as phantoms, and their response is largely independent of radiation quality and dose rate. Some gels are infused with ferrous sulfate and rely on the radiation-induced oxidation of ferrous ions to ferric ions (Fricke-gels). These formulations suffer from spontaneous-oxidation and diffusion of ferric ions after irradiation; chelating agents such as xylenol-orange significantly reduces the latter. Other gel types consist of dispersed monomers, and rely on radiation-induced cros…