Mathematical modelling software has become more and more available, user friendly and promises a significant gain of time by reducing requirements to perform a lot of real dosimetry test to understand the impact of processing parameter.

Nevertheless, a knowledge of the irradiator design, irradiation process and physics which work behind the scenes is necessary to get accurate data.

However, if the model and source inputs are accurate, mathematical modelling can be a powerful tool which yield practical results in a very short period of time when compared to real studies performed with dosimetry.

The presentation will:

• compare mathematical modelling results with real OQ data
• show that mathematical modelling results can help to quickly gain knowledge about dose impact when varying processing parameters like pallet type and dimension, or conveyor design.

2 practical examples will be used and presented:

• Impact of conveyor design on DUR – Real data vs modelling results
• Impact of wood pallet on DUR – Real data vs modeling results

When used in the right way, mathematical modelling will significantly reduce OQ time. The presentation will compare results, show the potential gain in time and dosimetry work but also show some challenges when using modelization.