A metrological perspective on data analysis methods in gamma-ray spectrometry

Gamma-ray spectroscopy is concerned with the measurement and interpretation of gamma-ray emission from nuclear decays. Its applications range from fundamental research into nuclear properties over radiation monitoring to quality assurance for radiopharmaceuticals, with different detectors and data acquisition systems utilized depending on the use case. Due to the complex nature of the gamma-ray spectra, the analysis of the recorded spectra is an important part of the measurement process and can have a significant impact on the result, in particular on measurement uncertainties and on detection limits for impurities. In this contribution, we will compare and evaluate different analysis methods in gamma-ray spectroscopy from a metrological perspective, considering accuracy, reproducibility, traceability to national and international standards, and measurement uncertainties.