Does a CT scan affect the thermoluminescence (TL) signal?


 

Because the energy of the X-rays used by modern CT scanners is so low and also because the exposure time is reduced to less than 100 seconds, we have demonstrated that CT scanning archaeological terracotta does not affect its TL signal in a measurable way. 

  

This is therefore a major change compared to the conventional radiological studies of the past which used to expose archaeological terracottas to stronger X-rays that could cause slight modification of the age determined by the TL signal analysis.

 

In Hong Kong • February 2006
In Hong Kong • February 2006