Evaluation of HPGe Detector Long Term Performance for Environmental Radioactivity Measurements

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Radiation Protection department, Nuclear and Radiation Safety Center, Egyptian Atomic Energy Authority,

2 Egyptian nuclear and radiological regulatory authority. Nasr City, Cairo, EGYPT.

3 Faculty of science, Al-Azhar University (Girls branch)

4 Radiation Protection department, Nuclear and Radiation Safety Center, Egyptian Atomic Energy Authority

Abstract

A gamma-emitting radionuclide is commonly measured qualitatively and quantitatively using a high-purity germanium (HPGe) detector. The precision of the measurement is determined by the HPGe detectors' performance. In this work, the long-term performance of the HPGe detector in the Central Laboratory for Radioactivity Measurements Inter-comparison and Training (CLERMET) is evaluated using statistical analysis. The minimal detectable activity (MDA) and the detection limit (LD) were computed. The Full Energy Peak Efficiency (FEPE) was calculated using a standard mixed gamma solution source and confirmed using samples from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) (PTs). The acquired data allowed for the determination of the resolution, peak shape, and peak to Compton ratio of the HPGe detector as a function of gamma-ray energy due to the long-term operation. FWHM, FWTM, FWFM and both ratios of FWTM/FWHM and FWFM/FWHM were determined at 1332 keV (60Co). The findings are used to discuss the detector's long-term performance stability. Even after a lengthy time of use, the results reveal that detector performance has no effect on the full energy peak efficiency (FEPE). The laboratory results were in good agreement with the target value based on the IAEA PTs, confirming the laboratory's dependability and traceability. For method validations, Quality Assurance and Quality Control are required to improve the reliability and accuracy of results as well as to demonstrate the laboratory's performance and trustworthiness.

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Egyptian Journal of Chemistry
Volume 65, Issue 132 - Serial Number 13
Special Issue: Chemistry and Global Challenges (Part B)
December 2022
Pages 699-705

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History

  • Receive Date: 02 June 2022
  • Revise Date: 17 October 2022
  • Accept Date: 24 October 2022

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