Effective use of Monte Carlo methods for simulating photon transport with special reference to slab penetration problems in X-raydiagnostics

• The analys is of Monte Carlo methods here has been made in connection with a particular problem concerning the transport of low energy photons (30-140 keV) through layers of water with thicknesses between 5 and 20 cm. While not claiming to be a complete exposition of available Monte Carlo techniques, the methodological analyses are not restricted to this particular problem. The report describes in a general manner a number of methods which can be used in order to obtain results of greater precision in a fixed computing time. Monte Carlo methods have been used for many years in reactor technology, particularly for solving problems associated with neutron transport, but also for studying photon transport through radiation shields. In connection with these particular problems, mathematically and statistically advanced methods have been worked out. The book by Spanier and Gelbard (1969) is a good illustration of this. In the present case, a more physical approach to Monte Carlo methods for solving photon transport problems is made (along the lines employed by Fano, Spencer and Berger (1959)) with the aim of encouraging even radiation physicists to use more sophisticated Monte Carlo methods. Today, radiation physicists perform Monte Carlo calculations with considerable physical significance but often with unnecessarily straightforward methods. As Monte Carlo calculations can be predicted to be of increasing importance in tackling problems in radiation physics, e.g., in X-ray diagnostics, it is worthwhile to study the Monte Carlo approach for its own sake.

Subject headings

MEDICIN OCH HÄLSOVETENSKAP  -- Klinisk medicin -- Radiologi och bildbehandling (hsv//swe)

MEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES  -- Clinical Medicine -- Radiology, Nuclear Medicine and Medical Imaging (hsv//eng)

Keyword

Radiological physics

Radiofysik

Publication and Content Type

vet (subject category)

rap (subject category)