Detection efficiency calculation for photons, electrons and positrons in a well detector. Part II: Analytical model versus simulations

A comparison is made between the results of Monte Carlo simulations and a new analytical model (cf. Part I) for the detection efficiency of a well-type NaI detector for photons, electrons and positrons in the energy range of 0.01 MeV–10 MeV. Using MCNP 5.1.40, GEANT3 and PENELOPE simulation results as benchmark, it was found that the analytical model was quite successful at reproducing the total detection efficiency for photons and positrons, and at giving rough indications on the photon peak-to-total ratio and the electron detection efficiency. It was also able to deal with cylindrical volume sources and vials, eccentric positioning of the source inside the detector well and the possible contribution of scattering or pair production in the surrounding lead shield.