Investigating cross-section effects on HPGe detector response through computational and empirical approaches

• Published in: Applied radiation and isotopes 2025-02, Vol.216, p.111596, Article 111596
• Main Authors: Mellak, Ghada, Boukhenfouf, Wassila, Dehimi, Fatma Zohra, Messai, Adnane, Hebboul, Nour Eddine
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: ANGLE software; Cross section; Efficiency; HPGe detector; MCNP5; Monte Carlo simulation
• ISSN: 0969-8043; 1872-9800; 1872-9800
• DOI: 10.1016/j.apradiso.2024.111596

The combination of experimental measurements and simulations provides valuable insights into the performance and limitations of gamma-ray spectrometry, especially within a specified energy range. This study investigates the impact of cross-section variations on the response of high-purity germanium (HPGe) detectors, focusing on the energy range from 53 keV to 1408 keV. Monte Carlo simulations using the MCNP5 code with two different cross-section libraries, ENDF/B.VI and JENDL-5, are conducted alongside a semi-empirical method utilizing ANGLE 4.0 software. This approach allows for a comprehensive exploration of how cross-section variations affect HPGe detector response. The flexibility in library selection highlights the adaptability of MCNP to cater to specific energy requirements. The calculated efficiencies are then compared with experimental data to evaluate accuracy and reliability. The results reveal an agreement within [2–3%] between experimental and simulated values, particularly for energies above 121 keV. Notably, for low-energy ranges (53–121 keV), the ENDF/B.VI library achieves an accuracy within [3–5%], making it effective at capturing low-energy interactions and enhancing prediction precision. This accuracy highlights its suitability for capturing low-energy interactions and enhances prediction precision. Overall, this study provides valuable insights into detector performance and underscores the significance of library choice in ensuring simulation accuracy. •Comprehensive analysis of the Full Energy Peak Efficiency (FEPE) in HPGe detectors for gamma-ray spectrometry.•Assessment of the impact of cross-section variations on detector response.•Utilization of experimental measurements alongside simulations with different computational tools.•Employment of the absolute method with MCNP5 code using ENDF/B.VI and JENDL-5 libraries, and a semi-empirical approach with ANGLE 4.0 software.•The flexibility in library selection highlights the adaptability of MCNP to cater to specific energy requirements.