Detector Characterization for High-Resolution Gamma-Ray Spectroscopy

Abstract

Gamma-ray spectroscopy is a key technique in nuclear physics, used to investigate the energy characteristics of gamma radiation emitted by radioactive isotopes and nuclear reactions. By analyzing these emissions, researchers gain important information about nuclear energy levels, decay processes, and the internal structure of atomic nuclei. High-resolution detectors—especially high-purity germanium (HPGe) detectors—are widely employed due to their superior ability to distinguish closely spaced gamma-ray peaks.In gamma-ray spectra, detected gamma rays appear as characteristic peaks corresponding to their energies. Careful identification of these peaks, including resolving overlaps and selecting suitable reference peaks, is essential for accurately determining detector energy resolution. The thesis includes a dedicated chapter analyzing the performance of three different detectors, with all external data and references clearly cited to ensure transparency and traceability.