Gamma spectrum analysis method for CLYC detectors based on Monte Carlo-simulated energy response

Li Yuhao; Zheng Honglong; Tuo Xianguo; He Ping; Wei Shiping; Yang Jianbo; Wang Chaolin; Li Yuhang; Yu Jiajia; Deng Qiyuan

doi:10.11884/HPLPB202638.250242

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Article Navigation > High Power Laser and Particle Beams > 2026 > Accepted Manuscript

Li Yuhao, Zheng Honglong, Tuo Xianguo, et al. Gamma spectrum analysis method for CLYC detectors based on Monte Carlo-simulated energy response[J]. High Power Laser and Particle Beams. doi: 10.11884/HPLPB202638.250242

Citation:

Li Yuhao, Zheng Honglong, Tuo Xianguo, et al. Gamma spectrum analysis method for CLYC detectors based on Monte Carlo-simulated energy response[J]. High Power Laser and Particle Beams. doi: 10.11884/HPLPB202638.250242

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Gamma spectrum analysis method for CLYC detectors based on Monte Carlo-simulated energy response

doi: 10.11884/HPLPB202638.250242

Research Center for Ray Detection Discipline and Technology, Sichuan University of Science & Engineering, Zigong 643000, China

Received Date: 2025-07-29
Accepted Date: 2026-01-09
Rev Recd Date: 2026-01-23

Available Online: 2026-02-27

Abstract

Abstract

Background
Precise γ-ray spectrum analysis is essential for nuclide identification and activity quantification, but faces significant challenges when using low-resolution detectors such as CLYC scintillators in complex radiation fields. The limited energy resolution of these detectors often leads to overlapping peaks and obscured characteristic spectral features, which complicates accurate spectrum interpretation.
Purpose
This study aims to overcome the inherent energy resolution limitations of CLYC detectors by developing a spectrum deconvolution method that can recover clear spectral information and separate overlapping peaks in complex γ-ray spectra.
Methods
A detector energy response matrix was constructed by combining Monte Carlo simulations to calculate γ-ray energy response functions with an interpolation method. Response functions were derived across the 0～3 MeV energy range at intervals of 0.05 MeV to ensure high precision. Spectrum deconvolution was then performed using the Maximum Likelihood Expectation Maximization (MLEM) algorithm, which was then applied to analyze the original complex spectrum.
Results
The method was validated by unfolding the spectra of a ²²⁶Ra source, a mixed ⁶⁰Co - ¹³⁷Cs source, and the complex spectrum of ¹⁵²Eu. The unfolded spectrum exhibited well-resolved characteristic peaks, effective separation of severely overlapping spectral regions, and stable quantitative results for characteristic peak areas.
Conclusions
The proposed approach significantly enhances the precision of γ-ray spectrum analysis with CLYC detectors. It successfully reveals the energy and intensity information of incident γ-rays, mitigates the detector’s resolution limitations, and provides a reliable method for analyzing spectrum in complex radiation environment.
- spectrum unfolding,
- MLEM algorithm,
- CLYC detector,
- response function

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References(16)

References

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