A Monte Carlo based technique for analysing gamma-ray spectra

Abstract

A technique based on a convolution algorithm and Monte Carlo simulation using the MCNP4C code (Briesmeister 2000 Los Alamos National Laboratory LA-13709-M) was developed and is proposed for analysing γ-ray spectra. It can be performed on condition that the detection of γ-rays can be simulated with the MCNP code; in other words, that simulated spectra can be obtained for γ-rays of interest. The technique was examined by testing it respectively on the deconvolution of γ-ray spectra from a 60Co source, an Am–Be neutron source, and from two pairs of standard sources: 137Cs and 54Mn, 60Co and 22Na. For all these sources, the shapes of simulated γ-ray spectra obtained using the technique were compared to the shapes of measured spectra. The technique appears to be efficient and practical and is reported here as an alternative and supplemental tool for analysing γ-ray spectra.