The Effect of Gamma-ray Detector Energy Resolution on the Ability to Identify Radioactive Sources

Technical Report · Thu Mar 05 04:00:00 EST 2009

DOI:https://doi.org/10.2172/952090· OSTI ID:952090

Nelson, K E; Gosnell, T B; Knapp, D A

This report describes the results of an initial study on radiation detector spectral resolution, along with the underlying methodology used. The study was done as part of an ongoing effort in Detection Modeling and Operational Analysis (DMOA) for the DNDO System Architecture Directorate. The study objective was to assess the impact of energy resolution on radionuclide identification capability, measured by the ability to reliably discriminate between spectra associated with 'threats' (defined as fissile materials) and radioactive 'non-threats' that might be present in the normal stream of commerce. Although numerous factors must be considered in deciding which detector technology is appropriate for a specific application, spectral resolution is a critical one for homeland security applications in which a broad range of non-threat sources are present and very low false-alarm rates are required. In this study, we have proposed a metric for quantifying discrimination capability, and have shown how this metric depends on resolution. In future work we will consider other important factors, such as efficiency and volume, and the relative frequency of spectra known to be discrimination challenges in practical applications.

• Research Organization: Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL), Livermore, CA
• Sponsoring Organization: USDOE
• DOE Contract Number: W-7405-ENG-48
• OSTI ID: 952090
• Report Number(s): LLNL-TR-411374
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

46 INSTRUMENTATION RELATED TO NUCLEAR SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
99 GENERAL AND MISCELLANEOUS
ARCHITECTURE
DETECTION
EFFICIENCY
ENERGY RESOLUTION
FISSILE MATERIALS
METRICS
RADIATION DETECTORS
RADIOISOTOPES
RESOLUTION
SECURITY
SIMULATION
SPECTRA
TRADE