Unfolding X-ray spectrum in the diagnostic range using the Monte Carlo Code MCNP5

Introduction: Unfolding X-ray spectrum is a powerful tool for quality control of X-ray tubes. Generally, the acquisition of the X-ray spectrum in diagnostic radiology departments is complicated and difficult due to high photon flux. Measurement of x ray spectra using radiation detectors could not be performed accurately, because of the pulse pile up. Therefore, indirect methods, including Compton spectrometry, are usually used to determine the X-ray spectrum in diagnostic energy range. The x-ray spectrum could be unfolded using radiation absorbing materials, proper detectors. Materials and Methods: The Compton scattering procedure was simulated using MCNP5 Monte Carlo code. The pulse height distributions (PHD) recorded by HPGe detector were simulated for different primary beam spectra. Then the primary spectrum was reconstructed using Tikhonov unfolding technique. Results: The results of this study indicate that this study, the x-ray spectra for 40, 50, 80, and 100kVp were unfolded with good accuracy. Conclusion: Tikhonov method may be effectively used in unfolding x ray spectra using Compton spectroscopy.