Experimental estimation of extremity doses from handheld XRF devices during radiation exposure incidents

This study experimentally evaluates extremity doses from unintentional exposure emitted by handheld X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analyzers. Although handheld XRF devices are widely used for material analysis, quantitative assessments of unintentional exposure remain limited. Mockup experiments were conducted using a Thermo Scientific NITON XLt 797 analyzer and a polymethyl methacrylate hand phantom equipped with radiophotoluminescent glass dosemeters (GD-302M). Spectrometric measurements were performed with a CdTe detector, and photon fluence spectra were unfolded using the MAXED code with Particle and Heavy Ion Transport code System-generated response functions. The mean X-ray energy was 28.4 ± 0.03 keV, with characteristic molybdenum peaks at ~17.5 keV (Kα) and 19.6 keV (Kβ). For a typical 30-s analysis, the estimated personal dose equivalent Hp(0.07) at the point of contact was ~95 μSv. The Hp(0.07) on the dorsal side was roughly one-fifth of the palmar dose. Ambient dose equivalent rates measured directly from the XRF device may reach high enough to set radiation-controlled areas, underscoring the need for strict handling protocols. These findings demonstrate the importance of radiological protection education and awareness when using handheld XRF devices.