Multi-method approaches for gamma spectrometry software: calibration, peak analysis, and corrections

Abstract

Numerous methods and techniques have been developed over time in gamma spectrometry to analyze spectra using specialized software. Review-type publications in gamma spectroscopy generally do not present certain methods that nevertheless exist and are used. This article presents a collection of various approaches, both old and new, applied at each stage of gamma spectrum analysis to identify and quantify the radioisotopes present in a sample, while also discussing the strengths and limitations of each method. The objective is to offer the reader a clear and structured view of the available tools, thereby facilitating the development of more efficient and accurate analysis software. It covers the entire process, from the raw spectrum to the final data interpretation, including peak detection, centroid fitting, peak shape correction, 511 keV peak correction, coincidence correction, radioisotope identification, and activity calculation. Finally, several data resources developed by our team, including source code, are freely available to support developers in designing or improving spectral analysis software, particularly for HPGe detectors.