Monte Carlo simulations towards semi-quantitative prompt gamma activation imaging

Numerous non-destructive techniques utilize neutron attenuation, scattering or capture to gain morphological, structural or elemental information about the material under study. However, few attempts have been made so far to use neutron-induced gamma radiation for 3D element mapping. The first ever facility using direct scanning for element imaging was set up at the Budapest Research Reactor. It was shown that the position-sensitive prompt-gamma detection (PGAI) enables us to determine the spatial distribution of major elements. Iterative Monte Carlo simulation technique has also been developed to provide not only qualitative but also semi-quantitative element distribution of a simple object.