RESUMEN
Measurements of free radical densities in sugar by electron spin resonance (ESR) constitute a useful method for determining the dose received in the case of accidental irradiation because this material retains its radiation history. The aim of this work is to establish methods for practical dose assessment of people involved in ionising irradiation accidents, using two types of sugar: sucrose and dextrose. In this regard, practical considerations of sample preparation, grain size, ESR spectrum and spurious mechanical-induced ESR signal are discussed. Also presented are results for signal reproducibility, radiation response, signal stability and low-dose values. Studies on irradiated samples were carried out to explain the complex spectra derived from different paramagnetic species.