Monte Carlo simulation of the sequential probability ratio test for radiation monitoring

Conference · Fri Feb 01 04:00:00 EST 1985 · IEEE Trans. Nucl. Sci.; (United States)

OSTI ID:6501005

Coop, K L

A computer program simulates the Sequential Probability Ratio Test (SPRT) using Monte Carlo techniques. The program, SEQTEST, performs random-number sampling of either a Poisson or normal distribution to simulate radiation monitoring data. The results are in terms of the detection probabilities and the average time required for a trial. The computed SPRT results can be compared with tabulated single interval test (SIT) values to determine the better statistical test for particular monitoring applications. Use of the SPRT in a hand-and-foot alpha monitor shows that the SPRT provides better detection probabilities while generally requiring less counting time. Calculations are also performed for a monitor where the SPRT is not permitted to the take longer than the single interval test. Although the performance of the SPRT is degraded by this restriction, the detection probabilities are still similar to the SIT values, and average counting times are always less than 75% of the SIT time. Some optimal conditions for use of the SPRT are described. The SPRT should be the test of choice in many radiation monitoring situations.

• Research Organization: Los Alamos National Lab., Los Alamos, NM
• OSTI ID: 6501005
• Report Number(s): CONF-841007-
• Conference Information: Journal Name: IEEE Trans. Nucl. Sci.; (United States) Journal Volume: NS-32:1
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

054000* -- Nuclear Fuels-- Health & Safety
11 NUCLEAR FUEL CYCLE AND FUEL MATERIALS
ALPHA DETECTION
CHARGED PARTICLE DETECTION
COMPUTER CODES
COMPUTERIZED SIMULATION
DETECTION
DOSES
MEASURING INSTRUMENTS
MONITORING
MONITORS
MONTE CARLO METHOD
RADIATION DETECTION
RADIATION DOSES
RADIATION MONITORING
RADIATION MONITORS
SIMULATION
TESTING