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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 PRINCIPLES OF RADIATION DETECTION
Code PHYS802
Coordinator Professor DT Joss
Physics
David.Joss@liverpool.ac.uk
Year CATS Level Semester CATS Value
Session 2025-26 Level 7 FHEQ Whole Session 15

Aims

Provide a critical overview of the principles underpinning a broad range of radiation detectors and detection techniques, and develop practical competence in the operation and evaluation of representative detector systems.


Learning Outcomes

(LO1) Critically analyze the interaction of radiation with materials, including the underlying physical processes and their implications for radiological measurements and safety.

(LO2) Evaluate and compare the operational characteristics of gas, scintillation, semiconductor, and neutron detectors, and justify their selection for specific radiological applications.

(LO3) Demonstrate proficiency in operating alpha, beta, gamma, and neutron detectors through practical calibration, data collection, and interpretation of results in applied radiation measurement scenarios.

(S1) Problem solving skills.

Apply advanced problem-solving strategies to address complex and unfamiliar scenarios in radiation science and protection.

(S2) Mathematical skills.

Utilize mathematical techniques to model, analyze, and interpret quantitative data relevant to radiological applications.

(S3) Analytical skills.

Critically analyze and synthesize information to support evidence-based conclusions in radiation measurement and safety contexts.

(S4) ICT / Computational skills.

Employ computational and ICT tools to perform simulations, data analysis, and modelling for radiological assessments.

(S5) Investigative skills.

Design and conduct investigative approaches, including experimental planning, data collection, and evaluation of findings.

(S6) Communication skills.

Communicate complex technical information effectively to specialist and non-specialist audiences through clear written and visual formats.


Syllabus

 

This module provides a comprehensive study of the principles and practical applications of radiation detectors, covering their physical operation, performance characteristics, and suitability for various radiological measurements. Key topics include:

Fundamental detector principles
- Charge production and collection mechanisms
- Pulse and current mode operation
- Spectrometry and energy resolution
- Detection efficiency and dead time considerations.

Gas-filled detectors
- Ionisation chambers
- Proportional counters and Geiger–Müller counters

Scintillation detectors
- Organic scintillators: liquid scintillation and plastic scintillators
- Inorganic scintillators: NaI(Tl), CsI(Tl), ZnS, BGO.
- Comparative performance and applications.

Semiconductor detectors
- Band structure and n- and p-type materials
- Germanium detectors for gamma and X- ray detection
- Silicon detectors for alpha particles and heavy ions
- Emerging materials.

Neutron detectors
- Nuclear reactions, 10B, 6Li, 3He, fission.
- Self-powered detectors.
- Neutron interrogation, Cerenkov detectors, photographic methods,
track detectors, thermoluminescence, mass spectrometry.


Teaching and Learning Strategies

Teaching Method 1 - Lecture
Description:
Teaching Method 2 - Laboratory Work
Description:


Teaching Schedule

  Lectures Seminars Tutorials Lab Practicals Fieldwork Placement Other TOTAL
Study Hours 11

    20

    31
Timetable (if known)              
Private Study 119
TOTAL HOURS 150

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 2 There is a resit opportunity. Standard UoL penalty applies for late submission. This is an anonymous assessment. Assessment Schedule (When) : Semester 1 This coursework will inv    50       
Practical laboratory assessment based around the use of different types of radiation detectors. The assessment will be based on the submission of a laboratory report and completion of associated qu    50       
In session laboratory work with continuous, formative feedback         

Recommended Texts

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