In this paper, we present results of experiments to characterize a large-volume (4 cm³), multi-element CdZnTe detector for high-efficiency, gamma-ray spectroscopy. The module includes an array of eight 0.5 cm³ coplanar grid detectors manufactured by eV Products. An eight-channel data acquisition system with list mode output is used to record gamma-ray events for each detector in the array. The list mode data are analyzed to determine the efficiency for coincidence events and to demonstrate different modes of operation (e.g., Compton suppression). The total efficiency of the array is found to match Monte Carlo calculations to within a few percent; however, the full-energy (photopeak) efficiency is significantly lower than predicted by Monte Carlo. The observed difference is probably caused by a combination of electrode design and charge transport properties. Approaches to improve full-energy efficiency are proposed.

Date Published: 21 November 2000
PDF: 10 pages
Proc. SPIE 4141, Hard X-Ray, Gamma-Ray, and Neutron Detector Physics II, (21 November 2000); doi: 10.1117/12.407567

Published in SPIE Proceedings Vol. 4141:
Hard X-Ray, Gamma-Ray, and Neutron Detector Physics II
Ralph B. James; Richard C. Schirato, Editor(s)