Optimization of Timepix3-based conventional Compton camera using electron track algorithm

TL;DR

This paper presents an electron track algorithm to improve the angular resolution of a Timepix3-based Compton camera, achieving a significant enhancement in imaging MeV gamma-ray sources.

Contribution

The study introduces an electron track reconstruction algorithm that significantly improves the angular resolution of Timepix3-based Compton cameras.

Findings

Angular resolution improved to 12 degrees (FWHM) for Co-60 gamma source.

Electron track algorithm effectively reduces interaction position measurement errors.

Demonstrated significant enhancement in imaging quality with the proposed method.

Abstract

The hybrid pixel detector Timepix3 allows the measurement of the time and energy deposition of an event simultaneously in each 55 $\mu$m pixel, which makes Timepix3 a promising approach for a compact Compton camera. However, the angular resolution of Compton camera based on this kind of detector with high pixel density is usually degraded in imaging of MeV gamma-ray sources, because the diffusion of energetic Compton electron or photoelectron could trigger many pixels and lead to an inaccurate measurement of interaction position. In this study, an electron track algorithm is used to reconstruct the electron track and determine the interaction point. An demonstrative experiment was carried out, showing that the effect of this algorithm was significant. The angular resolution measures of a single layer Compton camera based on Timepix3 was enhanced to 12 degrees (FWHM) in imaging of a Co-60 gamma source.