Benchmarking NaI(Tl) electron energy resolution measurements

Abstract

A technique for validating electron energy resolution /spl eta//sub e/ results measured using the modified Compton coincidence technique (MCCT) has been developed. This technique relies on comparing measured gamma-ray energy resolution /spl eta//sub /spl gamma// with calculated values that were determined using the measured /spl eta//sub e/ results. These /spl eta//sub /spl gamma// calculations were based on Monte Carlo photon transport simulations, the measured NaI(Tl) electron response, a simplified cascade sequence, and the measured /spl eta//sub e/ results. To demonstrate this technique, MCCT-measured NaI(Tl) /spl eta//sub e/ results were used along with measured /spl eta//sub /spl gamma// results from the same NaI(Tl) crystal. Agreement to within 5% was observed for all energies considered between the calculated and measured /spl eta//sub /spl gamma// results for the NaI(Tl) crystal characterized. The calculated /spl eta//sub /spl gamma// results were also compared with previously published /spl eta//sub /spl gamma// measurements with good agreement (< 10%). In addition to describing the validation technique that was developed in this study and the results, a brief review of the /spl eta//sub e/ measurements made using the MCCT is provided. Based on the results of this study, it is believed that the MCCT-measured /spl eta//sub e/ results are reliable. Thus, the MCCT and this validation technique can be used in the future to characterize the /spl eta//sub e/ of other scintillators and to determine NaI(Tl) intrinsic energy resolution.