Alpha particle detection with a planar CdZnTe detector and relative simulations

Purpose The performance of CZT in \gamma -ray and X-ray detection is growing rapidly in these years. However, there are only a few reports on its utilization in \alpha particle detection. Therefore, to study the properties of CZT for detection of \alpha particle, a detection system has been manufactured, and a series of simulations have been done.
Methods A 22\times 22\times 0.7 mm^3 planar CZT detector is deployed to detect the \alpha particles from a radiation source containing Am-241 and Pu-239, while COMSOL MultiPhysics and GEANT4 are employed in the simulation of charge collection and interaction between \alpha particles and CZT.
Results An energy resolution of 1.47% FWHM at 5.486MeV and 1.32% at 5.157MeV has been achieved. A simulated spectrum has been created, and it is analogous to the one from experiment.
Conclusion The experiment results show the potential of CZT in \alpha detection. The simulations are confirmed effective and will guide a better design of the detecting system.