Evaluating the uncertainty associated with computed values of the full-energy peak efficiency used in gamma spectrometry measurements

In this work a simple approach for estimating the true value of the computed full-energy peak (FEP) efficiency and the associated uncertainty is described. This approach makes use of a multiplicative model where the bias is expressed as a correction factor. It is based on the least squares estimation that provides estimates for the correction factor and the associated uncertainty for a future computation. Once calculated, these estimates can subsequently be used for estimating the true value of the computed FEP efficiency and the associated uncertainty for a future computation. The estimation method was applied to two datasets and the results show that codes such as GEANT4 and GESPECOR may provide values of the FEP efficiency that are very close to their true values.