Optimization of Timepix3-based conventional Compton camera using electron track algorithm

• Published in: Nuclear instruments & methods in physics research. Section A, Accelerators, spectrometers, detectors and associated equipment Vol. 1021; p. 165954
• Main Authors: Wen, Jiaxing, Zheng, Xutao, Gao, Huaizhong, Zeng, Ming, Zhang, Yuge, Yu, Minghai, Wu, Yuchi, Cang, Jirong, Ma, Ge, Zhao, Zongqing
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier B.V 01-01-2022
• Subjects: Compton camera; Electron track algorithm; Timepix3; Timepix3; Compton camera; Electron track algorithm
• ISSN: 0168-9002; 1872-9576
• DOI: 10.1016/j.nima.2021.165954

The hybrid pixel detector Timepix3 allows the measurement of the time and energy deposition of an event simultaneously in each 55 μm pixel, which makes Timepix3 a promising approach for a compact Compton camera. However, the angular resolution of Compton camera based on this kind of detector with high pixel density is usually degraded in imaging of MeV gamma-ray sources, because the diffusion of energetic Compton electron or photoelectron could trigger many pixels and lead to an inaccurate measurement of interaction position. In this study, an electron track algorithm is used to reconstruct the electron track and determine the interaction point. An demonstrative experiment was carried out, showing that the effect of this algorithm was significant. The angular resolution measures of a single layer Compton camera based on Timepix3 was enhanced to 12 degrees (FWHM) in imaging of a 60Co gamma-ray source.