Module Details

The information contained in this module specification was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change, either during the session because of unforeseen circumstances, or following review of the module at the end of the session. Queries about the module should be directed to the member of staff with responsibility for the module.
Title GAMMA-RAYS: DETECTION AND MODELLING
Code PHYS805
Coordinator Prof PJ Nolan
Physics
P.J.Nolan@liverpool.ac.uk
Year CATS Level Semester CATS Value
Session 2022-23 Level 7 FHEQ Whole Session 7.5

Aims

To give a practical and theoretical knowledge of gamma ray detection using scintillation, semiconductor and gas detectors to use a modelling code to predict detector performance.


Learning Outcomes

(LO1) Knowledge of the interaction of gamma-rays with materials

(LO2) Knowledge of scintillation and semiconductor detectors (construction and uses)

(LO3) The ability to set up and use scintillation and semiconductor detectors

(LO4) The ability to use the MCNP code to model detector performance


Syllabus

 

Interaction of gamma rays with material (solid and gas); photoelectric effect, Compton scattering, pair production. Scintillation pricniples, types of scintillator, scintillation mechanisms, organic molecules, fluorescence and phosphorescence, quenching, inorganic scintillators, band structure and activators. Types and properties of organic and inorganic scintillators. Light collection and photoelectron production. Photomultiplier tubes; basic elements, photocathodes, electron multiplication. Spectroscopy with scintillators. Properties of spectrometers including resolution, linearity, gain stability and efficiency. Arrays of scintillation detectors, whole body, PET and CAT scanners. Semiconductor detectors; types of semiconductor (silicon, germanium, cadmium telluride, cadmium zinc telluride etc). Different types of detector geometry; planar, coaxial. High resolution spectroscopy for X-rays and gamma-rays. Use of the MCNP code to model various situations involving gamma ray detectio n.


Teaching and Learning Strategies

Teaching Method 1 - Lecture
Description:
Attendance Recorded: No

Teaching Method 2 - Tutorial
Description:
Attendance Recorded: No

Teaching Method 3 - Laboratory Work
Description:
Attendance Recorded: Yes


Teaching Schedule

  Lectures Seminars Tutorials Lab Practicals Fieldwork Placement Other TOTAL
Study Hours 7

  5

25

    37
Timetable (if known)              
Private Study 38
TOTAL HOURS 75

Assessment

EXAM Duration Timing
(Semester)
% of
final
mark
Resit/resubmission
opportunity
Penalty for late
submission
Notes
             
CONTINUOUS Duration Timing
(Semester)
% of
final
mark
Resit/resubmission
opportunity
Penalty for late
submission
Notes
Assessment 1 Assessment Schedule (When) :n/a    67       
Assessment 2 Assessment Schedule (When) :n/a    33       

Recommended Texts

Reading lists are managed at readinglists.liverpool.ac.uk. Click here to access the reading lists for this module.