Insect wings could serve as radiation dosimeters

New Scientist : Dragonflies, houseflies, and other insects may one day be used to help gauge radiation levels at nuclear power plants and after nuclear incidents. Ionizing radiation causes electrons in the atoms of the insects’ wings to be ejected. The resulting holes can act as particles, which then move around the electrons. When exposed to UV light, the holes and electrons can recombine; when they do, a flash of light is emitted. Now Nikolaos Kazakis of the Athena Research Center in Greece and colleagues have tested the radiation sensitivity of several types of winged insects by exposing them to different doses, shining a light on them, and measuring the flashes. Because insects are short-lived, they are mostly uncontaminated by natural radiation. Although the researchers were able to measure exposures of 10–2000 Gy, the technique was not sensitive enough to detect lower radiation exposures. In addition, any exposure to sunlight reduced its effectiveness. However, say the researchers, the technique could still have its uses. And because insects are ubiquitous, there will always be plenty to be found in dark places such as air ducts and basements.