Gaussian Energy Broadening Function of an HPGe Detector in the Range of 40 keV to 1.46 MeV

High-purity germanium (HPGe) detectors are widely used in nuclear spectroscopy (e.g., neutron activation analysis) due to their high resolution. Resolution function of a GMX series coaxial detector system (model number GMX40P4-83) in the range of 40 keV to 1.46 MeV has been measured using standard γ-ray sources. The energy response function also was calculated using Monte Carlo simulation through the precise modeling of the detector structure. The simulated energy response function was verified with the measured energy response function obtained using calibration sources. A new approach was used and the agreement between both results has been improved.

Measurement of Background Radioactivity in Sewage Sludge for Baghdad City Treatment Stations

Sewage sludge samples were collected from Al-rasafa and Al-karkh refinement stations which represent the main stations of Baghdad city. Samples were collected from all treatment stages: before, after, and during refinement processes. The High Purity Germanium Coaxial Detector system with energy resolution 1.8 keV for energy line 1333 keV of Co – 60 radioactive sources was used to measure radioactivity from both natural and artificial sources. GENIE – 2000 analysis the results statistically and qualitatively. The results showed that all sewage sludge samples exhibited natural radioactive level and sometimes less than the international regular standards, but Al–Karkh station showed increment in radioactive levels than Al– Rasafa station. Cs – 137 artificial radionuclide was detected in the samples with low concentration.