Speaker
Description
The development of advanced radiation imaging systems for environmental monitoring requires improved sensitivity, rapid response, and reliable source localisation in complex measurement scenarios. In this work, a two-stage Compton camera is investigated with particular emphasis on detector performance, timing characteristics, and geometrical optimisation.
The system is based on compact 14 × 14 × 25.4 mm LaBr$_3$:Ce scintillation detectors coupled to SiPM readout, enabling low-voltage operation while maintaining excellent performance. These detectors (CapeScint, MA, USA) achieve an energy resolution of 3.4% at 662 keV and exhibit favourable fast-timing properties. Monte Carlo simulations using the TOPAS toolkit are employed to study Compton scatter kinematics and to guide the optimisation of detector configuration. These studies are complemented by experimental measurements using standard gamma-ray sources to evaluate system performance.
To extend the functionality of the system, neutron detection is incorporated using two Cs$_2$LiYCl$_6$ (CLYC-6) SiPM-readout detectors of matching geometry. Pulse shape discrimination techniques are applied to separate neutron and gamma-ray interactions, enabling concurrent measurement of both radiation types and providing a more complete assessment of environmental radiation fields.
The proposed system is aimed at applications requiring portable and accurate radiation detection, including contamination mapping, nuclear facility surveillance, and emergency response. By combining high energy resolution, fast timing, and dual gamma–neutron sensitivity, this work contributes toward the development of versatile instrumentation for environmental and nuclear safety. Preliminary results from both simulation and experimental investigations are presented.
| Apply for student award at which level: | None |
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| Consent on use of personal information: Abstract Submission | Yes, I ACCEPT |