Benchmarking NaI(Tl) electron energy resolution measurements

A technique for validating electron energy resolution η_e results measured using the modified Compton coincidence technique (MCCT) has been developed. This technique relies on comparing measured gamma-ray energy resolution η_γ with calculated values that were determined using the measured η_e results. These η_γ calculations were based on Monte Carlo photon transport simulations, the measured NaI(Tl) electron response, a simplified cascade sequence, and the measured η_e results. To demonstrate this technique, MCCT-measured NaI(Tl) η_e results were used along with measured η_γ results from the same NaI(Tl) crystal. Agreement to within 5% was observed for all energies considered between the calculated and measured η_γ results for the NaI(Tl) crystal characterized. The calculated η_γ results were also compared with previously published η_γ measurements with good agreement (< 10%). In addition to describing the validation technique that was developed in this study and the results, a brief review of the η_e measurements made using the MCCT is provided. Based on the results of this study, it is believed that the MCCT-measured η_e results are reliable. Thus, the MCCT and this validation technique can be used in the future to characterize the η_e of other scintillators and to determine NaI(Tl) intrinsic energy resolution.