Enhancement of MD-55-2 radiochromic film sensitivity using a multilayer film technique for applications in the low dose range

Background: MD-55-2 is one of the Radiochromic film models with the sensitivity suitable for dose measurements ranging from 5 to 100 Gy. However, this lower limit makes the film impractical for its applications in many areas such as brachytherapy source dosimetry. Materials and methods: In this project, the useful range of the film has been extended by using a multilayer film technique. In this technique, single, double-, and triple- layers of films were exposed to the doses ranging from 0.5 to 10 Gy using a Co-60 photon beam. Calibration curves for corresponding layers of films were obtained with a spectrophotometer using a 680nm wavelength. Results: The results indicated that the sensitivities of double and triple layers were approximately 200% and 300%, respectively, higher than a single-layer film. The impact of multilayer film arrangement on the energy dependence of the MD-55-2 Radiochromic film has also been examined using 100 kVp, 80 kVp, and 6 MV X-ray beams. The results indicated an insignificant (within 5%) change in film responses with the beam energy. Conclusion: Therefore, the multilayer technique enhances the Radiochromic film sensitivity and expands its application to the low dose range in field of brachytherapy source dosimetryl.