An inter-comparison of three spectral-deconvolution algorithms for gamma-ray spectroscopy

This paper presents a comparison of three deconvolution techniques, Maximum Likelihood, Maximum Entropy and Linear Regularisation for the unconstraine d deconvolution of gamma-ray spectra. These convert the raw energy-loss spe ctra obtained using a standard scintillation counter, into a good represent ation of the incident gamma-ray spectrum. This work is based on the use of an industry-standard 3x3 inch NaI detector. Both simulated and measured dat a have been deconvolved using the three algorithms to provide a direct comp arison between the qualities of the deconvolved spectra. For applications i n which it is important to derive an accurate estimate of the number of cou nts in a particular full-energy peak, the Maximum Likelihood Method has bee n shown to be superior.