A method for the comparison of performance of gamma-ray spectrometry calibration cocktails

In order to make quantitative assessments about the usefulness of different gamma-ray emitting radionuclide cocktails to carry out efficiency calibrations of gamma-ray spectrometers, a method has been developed that allows the comparison of their different performances and to optimize the choice of gamma energy lines for the radionuclides within a specific cocktail. The method has been applied to compare different cocktail configurations obtained from measurements made in the laboratory with monoenergetic radionuclides, and their relative performances are presented and discussed.