Numerical simulation on scintillator detector response for determining element content in PGNAA system

For selecting gamma ray detector to determining element content using prompt gamma neutron activation analysis technique, the response of BGO and LaBr3 scintillator detectors was compared with Monte Carlo simulation method. The simulation models under different formation composed of various elements were established by MCNP, and then gamma ray spectrum was processed by least squares method. It is concluded that the element calculation accuracy will be different when scintillator was changed. With higher energy resolution, LaBr3 scintillator can be used to improve the accuracy of the element content calculation result, and is more suitable for plentiful element formation.