Monte Carlo simulation of X-ray spectra and evaluation of filter effect using MCNP4C and FLUKA code

Abstract

The general-purpose MCNP4C and FLUKA codes were used for simulating X-ray spectra. The electrons were transported until they slow down and stop in the target. Both bremsstrahlung and characteristic X-ray production were considered in this work. Tungsten/aluminum combination was used as target/filter in the simulation. The results of two codes were generated in 80, 100, 120 and 140 kV and compared with each other. In order to survey filter effect on X-ray spectra, the attenuation coefficient of filter was calculated in 120 kV. More details of filter effect have been investigated. The results of MCNP4C and FLUKA are comparable in the range of bremsstrahlung spectra, but there are some differences between them especially in specific X-ray peaks. Since the specific peaks have not significant role on image quality, both FLUKA and MCNP4C codes are fairly appropriate for production of X-ray spectra and evaluating image quality, absorbed dose and improvement in filter design.