Observation Systems of Cherenkov Radiation from Water Phantom Irradiated with Co-60 Gamma-rays

Blue light of Cherenkov radiation generated by electrons in transparent substances such as water and acrylic resin is well known generally. If students can easily observe the blue light at school, they may be impressed by the fascinating radiation. Four years ago, management of the Co-60 unit for radiotherapy was transferred to Nagoya University School of Health Sciences from a related hospital. We have examined whether or not the Cherenkov radiation in water from secondary electrons generated by Co-60 gamma-rays can be safely observed by eyes and photographs. First, the Cherenkov radiation in the water tank was led to the corridor outside the irradiation room by a mirror, and observed directly without any effect of the radiation exposure. Second, photographs of the Cherenkov radiation were taken under the conditions consisted of several irradiation fields and pass lengths of gamma-rays in water.