Stopping power data for high-energy photon beams

Abstract

Spencer-Attix stopping power ratios for the dosimetry of high-energy photon beams used in radiation therapy have been calculated using the Monte Carlo method. The stopping power ratios are calculated in a more consistent way than previously and are given as a function of the attenuation properties of the beam. The dependence of the stopping power ratio on the electron contamination of the beam as well as on depth and field size has also been investigated. Results are compared with stopping power ratios recommended in different dosimetry protocols and to experimental results. The agreement with most dosimetry protocols is within about one per cent and with recent experimental data is better than half a per cent.