A Monte Carlo optical code for the study of gamma cameras based on a scintillator read out by a silicon photodetector array

A Monte Carlo optical code for the optimization of scintillation gamma came ras based on a single scintillator coupled to arrays of Silicon Photodiodes (PDs) or Silicon Drift Detectors (SDDs) have been developed. The simulator allows to calculate the expected gain (e-/keV), position resolution and en ergy resolution of the gamma detector for different geometries and boundary conditions at the crystal interfaces. A validation of the algorithm has be en carried out by comparing the results of the simulations with the corresp onding experimental results obtained on existing prototypes of detectors re cently developed. An example of application of the proposed code in the stu dy of a small scintillation camera is also reported.