Compton Imaging Systems Based on CdZnTe/CdTe Detectors

 The Compton imaging system, called a Compton camera, uses Compton scattering to generate gamma-ray images. Although various designs exist for Compton cameras, the typical configuration includes a scatterer and an absorber detector. These detectors perform a crucial role in precisely determining the position and energy characteristics of the scattered gamma rays. Over the past four decades, researchers exploring Compton cameras have investigated diverse geometric designs, materials for scatterer and absorber detectors, detector dimensions, and methods for generating two- or three-dimensional output images. This extensive research aims to enhance Compton cameras’ efficiency, angular resolution, and spatial resolution, providing valuable insights into the field. Cadmium zinc telluride (CdZnTe)/cadmium telluride (CdTe) detectors play a pivotal role in advanced Compton cameras, offering higher detection efficiency, better energy resolution, and enhanced sensitivity to gamma rays. Their effectiveness in capturing gamma-ray interactions is integral to the precision of Compton cameras, making them indispensable in scientific and medical research. This chapter delves into the foundational principles of Compton cameras, emphasizing their importance in contemporary imaging technologies. Recent research initiatives utilizing CdZnTe/CdTe detectors are thoroughly examined, highlighting their invaluable contributions to advancing the capabilities of Compton cameras in cutting-edge scientific investigations.