Application of Monte Carlo Simulation to Design of Sampler and Detector in Radiation Monitoring System

In this study, the applicability of Monte Carlo code particle and heavy ion transport code system (PHITS) [Sato et al. (2013, “Particle and Heavy Ion Transport Code System PHITS, Version 2.52,” J. Nucl. Sci. Technol., 50(9), pp. 913–923)] to the equipment design of sampler and detector in the radiation monitoring system was evaluated by comparing calculation results with experimental results obtained by actual measurements of radioactive materials. In modeling a simulation configuration, reproducing the energy distribution of beta-ray emitted from specific nuclide by means of Fermi Function was performed as well as geometric arrangement of the detector in the sampler volume. The reproducing and geometric arrangement proved that the calculation results are in excellent matching with actual experimental results. Moreover, reproducing the Gaussian energy distribution to the radiation energy deposition was performed according to experimental results obtained by the multi-channel analyzer. Through the modeling and the Monte Carlo simulation, key parameters for equipment design were identified and evaluated. Based on the results, it was confirmed that the Monte Carlo simulation is capable of supporting the evaluation of the equipment design.