Characterization of a Novel CdZnTe Spectrometer for Measuring Radioactivity in the Marine Environment

The scope of this study is to characterize the response a CdZnTe spectrometer evaluate its performance for measuring radioactivity in marine environment. semiconductor detectors have never been used before such applications. More specifically, with 4 cm3 CZT crystal was studied under various scenarios, by means Monte Carlo simulations and lab measurements. Using code MCNP5, effect water’s salinity on detector’s efficiency, as well ability sensor localize radioactive sources water were examined. Futhermore, full energy peak efficiency curve resolution calculated experimentally air. Finally, effective volume estimated through measurements using collimated point source 137Cs. First results are considered satisfactory, however additional scenarios should be examined near future further detector.