Derivation of an efficiency-calibration simulation for a well-type HPGe detector using the Monte Carlo approach and analytical techniques

• Dependence of full-energy peak efficiency by Monte Carlo simulations was studied.
• Semi empirical model was presented (150–2000 keV) for well type detector.
• Deviations between calculated and experimental efficiencies were less than ±10%.
• Therefore, the simulation model appeared to be acceptable for 150–2000 keV.

Simulation is a simple method that allows for facile estimation of a detector response function when the specifications of the investigated sample and the sample-detector geometry are known. In this study, the dependence of the full-energy peak efficiency on the sample and detector specifications was studied via analytical techniques and the Monte Carlo approach in the energy range of 150–2000 keV for a well-type measuring geometry, and a semi-empirical model was developed. The modeling of the detector efficiency is described in detail. The compute results were compared with experimental data, and comparison of the calculated efficiencies with the measured values indicated that the deviations between the calculated and experimental efficiencies were mostly less than ±10%. Therefore, the simulation model appear to be suitable for routine environmental radionuclide analysis when uncertainties of up to 10% are acceptable for energies between 150 and 2000 keV.