Monte Carlo determinations of the beta dose rate to tooth enamel

The results of Monte Carlo simulations of the beta dose rate to enamel are presented. The dose rates are the most comprehensive to date, incorporating the beta spectrum from 21 different radionuclides, all internal conversion and Auger electrons, the majority of the bremsstrahlung; radiation, effects due to radon loss in the uranium series, and variations in the moisture content of the sediment. Applications to a new dating technique in archaeology using electron spin resonance and beta-gradient isochrons are discussed. (C) 2002 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.