Gamma-ray Spectroscopy using High-Purity Germanium (HPGe) Detectors

Gamma-ray energies of the exempt sources ^{57, 60}Co, ¹³⁷Cs and ²²⁸Th are measured with newly purchased High-Purity Germanium (HPGe) detectors and research-grade electronics at South Carolina State University. The principles behind the response characteristics of the detector are explained. The high-resolution measurement results are contrasted with those obtainable from the NaI(Tl) (sodium iodide) scintillation detector previously explored. In addition, the Doppler Broadening of an annihilation gamma-ray will also be studied. This local equipment would give us a way to build a program that’s connected to the wider community; e.g., students’ training, and the algorithms being used for our own PAC approved experiments at the national facilities.