Calibration with MCNP of NaI detector for the determination of natural radioactivity levels in the field

In view of assessing natural radioactivity with on-site quantitative gamma spectrometry, efficiency calibration of NaI(Tl) detectors is investigated. A calibration based on Monte Carlo simulation of detector response is proposed, to render reliable quantitative analysis practicable in field campaigns. The method is developed with reference to contact geometry, in which measurements are taken placing the NaI(Tl) probe directly against the solid source to be analyzed. The Monte Carlo code used for the simulations was MCNP. Experimental verification of the calibration goodness is obtained by comparison with appropriate standards, as reported. On-site measurements yield a quick quantitative assessment of natural radioactivity levels present (40K, 238U and 232Th). On-site gamma spectrometry can prove particularly useful insofar as it provides information on materials from which samples cannot be taken. •Efficiency calibration of NaI(Tl) detectors for on-site gamma spectrometry.•Calibration based on Monte Carlo simulation (MCNP code).•Quantitative assessment of natural radioactivity (40K, 238U and 232Th).•Experimental verification of the calibration goodness.