Introduction

Ionising radiation

Exposure to high levels of radiation poses significant risks to human health, as tragically demonstrated by incidents like Fukushima. In contrast, controlled use of ionizing radiation in cancer therapy is designed to target and eliminate malignant cells. Achieving successful treatment outcomes depends on accurately measuring both the dose delivered and its precise spatial distribution. Precise dosimetry is critical for both external treatments (teletherapy) and internal procedures (brachytherapy). Advances in radiation technology—such as the integration of linear accelerators with MRI scanners and the adoption of proton therapy over traditional photon treatments—demand increasingly sophisticated measurement methods. Geocore is at the forefront of developing these techniques, ensuring accurate quantification and mapping of radiation output from next-generation equipment.

Geocore and ionising radiation

Geocore delivers comprehensive dosimetry services to a diverse clientele, including hospitals, the medical sector, dosimetry firms, manufacturers of radiation equipment and detectors, and organizations working with radiation, such as nuclear power plants. We also participate in several European research initiatives. Our experts serve on multiple committees, including the Netherlands Commission on Radiation Dosimetry (NCS), where they provide guidance on measuring ionizing radiation.

Consultancy

We collaborate closely with manufacturers and end users, offering tailored advice and technical support to refine measurement and inspection methods. This approach helps enhance both process efficiency and the overall quality of their products.

Custom services

Custom ionising radiation metrology

Geocore boasts extensive expertise in ionising radiation, covering its measurement and the analysis of resulting data. Our specialized services are in high demand by governments, hospitals, research institutions, and manufacturers for a variety of unique applications. Our offerings include:

• Measurement System Design and Implementation: We assist in the planning and setup of measurement systems, ensuring traceability and preparing your equipment for ISO certification.
• Development and Validation of Measurement Methods: We create and rigorously validate custom measurement approaches, delivering comprehensive reports that detail the methodology and assess measurement uncertainty.
• ISO Certification Guidance: Accreditation requires meeting strict criteria. We verify your measurement methods and data, improve traceability, and prepare detailed uncertainty budgets.
• Reduction of Measurement Uncertainty: Our experts focus on minimizing uncertainties and compiling precise uncertainty budgets to support quality assurance.
• Calibration Laboratory Audits: Conducted under the guidance of the Dutch Accreditation Council, our audits help ensure your calibration lab meets the highest standards.

Every project is unique. If you need expert advice or would like to learn how we can support your specific needs, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

Calibration

Ionising radiation calibration services

Precise radiation measurement is vital for effective radiotherapy and ensuring patient safety in radiological diagnostics. At Geocore, we maintain full traceability to established standards for both teletherapy and brachytherapy by calibrating ionisation chambers for Co-60, Cs-137, and various X-ray beams. We also offer calibration services for well-type ionisation chambers used with Ir-192 sources. For broader radiological applications, our expertise extends to calibrating KAP meters, KLP meters, and ionisation chambers across a wide range of X-ray qualities. All of our work complies with ISO, IEC, NEN, and NCS standards.

Keeping radiation environments safe

Accurate radiation measurement is essential to safeguard employees in environments where exposure is a concern. Ensuring quality involves routinely calibrating both radiation sources and measurement instruments. Additionally, these regular calibrations are necessary to meet the stringent requirements for ISO certification and FDA approval.

On-site calibration of radiation sources

Beyond our in-house calibrations, Geocore also provides on-site calibration services for radiation sources. This approach ensures that high-quality, accurately calibrated sources are readily available wherever they are needed.