Accuracy, precision, and irradiation time for Monte Carlo simulations of single aliquot regeneration (SAR) optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) dosimetry measurements

Monte Carlo simulations of single aliquot regeneration (SAR) optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) dosimetry measurements of natural quartz are used to investigate the behaviour of the measured equivalent dose (DE) as a function of absorbed dose (palaeodose). The mean DE is shown to overestimate the palaeodose, particularly for larger luminescence measurement errors and larger palaeodoses. The median DE is shown to be a more accurate estimate of the palaeodose at moderate palaeodoses. Simulations show that exponential dose sequences yield similar accuracy and precision as linear dose sequences while reducing the total irradiation time. A minimal dose sequence is proposed and shown to require even less total irradiation per sample than exponential dose sequences, while maintaining accuracy (within 1%) and precision (standard deviation of 1–6%) for 24 aliquots measured with a reasonable luminescence measurement error of 2%. The results of this study demonstrate that significant savings in total irradiation time per sample are possible.