Optimization of a coincidence system using plastic scintillators in 4pi geometry

Area of Science:

• Nuclear Metrology
• Radioactivity Measurement
• Detector Physics

Background:

• The Nuclear Metrology Laboratory of IPEN-CNEN/SP in São Paulo has developed improvements for a primary 4π beta-gamma coincidence system.
• The system utilizes plastic scintillators in a 4π geometry.

Purpose of the Study:

• To increase the detector efficiency of the 4π beta-gamma coincidence primary system.
• To validate experimental measurements against Monte Carlo simulations for the improved system.

Main Methods:

• Implemented upgrades to the detector system.
• Conducted experimental measurements and compared them to the original system.
• Utilized the Penelope code for calculating detector response functions.
• Employed the Esquema code for simulating nuclear decay scheme processes.
• Performed Monte Carlo simulations of extrapolation curves for the new system.

Main Results:

• The new system demonstrated increased detector efficiency compared to the original configuration.
• Monte Carlo simulations using Penelope and Esquema codes accurately predicted experimental results.
• Extrapolation curves calculated via simulation aligned well with experimental data.

Conclusions:

• The developed improvements successfully enhance the detector efficiency of the 4π beta-gamma coincidence system.
• The combination of experimental measurements and advanced Monte Carlo simulations provides a robust method for system validation.
• This work contributes to more precise radioactivity measurements in nuclear metrology.