Versatile method and device for thermoluminescence comparative analysis

摘要

Versatile method and device of thermoluminescence analysis are provided. Such a method and device can be applied to: exploration of petroleum, natural gas and minerals; forensic examination of objects; environmental monitoring; and production quality control. The device includes: a heating element; an optical readout system; and a rotating disk with openings for passage of light emitted by a heated sample. The device further includes a reference light source for controlling the optical readout system, and a computer system for controlling the operation of said device and for data storage, retrieval and processing. The method includes the steps of: (a) extracting reference and analysed samples for analysis; (b) performing thermoluminescence analysis, including the steps of: (i) heating a sample and recording a thermoluminescence curve associated with a natural irradiation; (ii) irradiating the sample; and (iii) heating the sample and recording a thermoluminescence curve associated with the artificial irradiation; (c) performing a comparative analysis of the thermoluminescence curves associated with natural and artificial irradiation of the reference and analysed samples; and (d) making a conclusion.