Simulation of a gamma-ray imaging technique using detector response patterns

Abstract

We introduce a novel gamma-ray imaging technique that uses detector response patterns. This method employs multiple shielding cubes randomly positioned in a three-dimensional configuration. Within the volume defined by these cubes, a unique gamma-ray flux pattern is formed based on the incidence direction of the gamma rays. This pattern can be measured using the responses of several scintillator cubes. By pre-measuring the detector response pattern and incidence direction of the gamma rays, the incidence direction can be estimated using an unfolding technique. Simulations were performed using a 137Cs point source. Our results show that a 10 MBq 137Cs source, located 3 m away from the imager, can be imaged with an angular resolution close to 10°. These findings suggest that our new method is comparable to existing gamma-ray imaging techniques. Potential applications of this imaging method include nuclear power plant decommissioning, nuclear medicine, security, and astronomy.