A simple chemical dosimeter is described which is based on the degradation of polyacrylamide of x and gamma radiation. The sensitivity range is between 50 and 7500 r and is essentially unaffected by fast and thermal neutron fields. The dosimeter is dose-rate- and energy-independent, is stable over long periods of time before and after irradiation, and is simple to make and read. Additionally, it is suited for inclusion in a multipurpose foil dosimeter to be employed for personnel monitoring in criticality incidents. (auth)