In-Situ Characterization of Radioactive Materials and Objects Using Portable High Purity Germanium Detectors

Introduction

If a radioactive source needs to be classified in various scenarios, the required information includes identification of the radioisotope(s) present and an estimation of the activity. In the field, identification of radioisotopes is most accurately performed using a high purity germanium (HPGe) detector. However, using a HPGe detector to estimate the total activity (especially in case of a shielding) may require additional software and hardware due to the complexity of the data.

This training will provide an overview of the general approach to estimate activity of radioactive sources and demonstrate the process using an example HPGe detector and software.

Objectives

Representatives from competent authorities that are involved in the use, specification, and sustainment of nuclear detection technologies used in nuclear security activities.