Thermoluminescence analysis of irradiated oyster shells

This paper reports the thermoluminescence (TL) analysis performed on the oyster shells powder. TL response of 60Co gamma-rays irradiated samples were studied in the range from 80 Gy to 8 kGy doses. TL signal of irradiated shell powder was higher as compared to the unirradiated control samples, which allowed to identify the irradiated oysters. Results show that the oyster shells have good TL properties and can be useful for the identification of irradiated seafood as well as for the evaluation of the treatment dose.

► TL properties of irradiated oyster shell powder were studied.
► The SEM analysis shows that several elements are present in oyster shell powder.
► Calcite is the main component in the samples and β-calcite is also present.
► Following the European Standard EN 1788, the irradiated oyster can be identified.
► Determination of absorbed dose is possible by performing a preheat treatment.