application of gum supplement 1 to uncertainty of monte carlo computed efficiency in gamma-RAY spectrometry

The uncertainty of quantities relevant in gamma-ray spectrometry (efficiency, transfer factor, self-attenuation FA and coincidence summing FC correction factors) is realistically evaluated by Monte Carlo propagation of the distributions characterizing the parameters on which these quantities depend. Probability density functions are constructed and summarized as recommended in the GUM Supplement 1 and compared with the values obtained using the traditional approach (GUM uncertainty framework). Special. cases when this approach encounters difficulties (FC uncertainty due to the uncertainty of decay scheme parameters, effect of activity and matrix inhomogeneity on efficiency) are also discussed. (C) 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.