Nuclear Nonproliferation

Gamma-ray Spectrum Catalog

Provides reference gamma-ray spectra, decay data and detector information to support radionuclide identification, radiation measurement and nuclear research.

ART Gamma Spectroscopy at ATR and HFEF

About the Catalog

For more than 30 years, Idaho National Laboratory (INL) has advanced gamma-ray spectrometry, radiation measurement and nuclear metrology. This work helped establish detector standards, measurement methods and reference spectra that have been widely used by researchers around the world.

The Gamma-ray Spectrum Catalog builds on that foundation by providing digitized reference spectra, decay data and supporting information for a range of radionuclides. The catalog combines historical measurements with updated nuclear data to support research, calibration and isotope identification.

About the Catalog

The INL Gamma-ray Spectrum Catalog includes spectra collected with high-purity germanium (HPGe), Ge(Li), Si(Li) and NaI(Tl) detectors. Each entry includes:

  • Gamma-ray spectra
  • Decay schemes
    Gamma-ray energy and emission probability tables
  • Current Evaluated Nuclear Structure Data File (ENSDF) information
  • Spectra acquisition and ENSDF update dates

When available, multiple spectra are provided to illustrate differences in detector type, detector size and source age. Historical spectra from the original NaI(Tl) and Ge(Li) catalogs have been preserved for comparison with newer measurements.

Technical Notes

Understanding the Data
Some spectra include radioactive progeny that develop over time. To help interpret the results:

  • Parent and progeny peaks are color coded within the spectra.
  • Progeny radionuclides are identified in parentheses.
  • Source age is provided whenever it can be measured or calculated because it affects spectral content and peak intensities.
  • The notation “_2” or “_N” following a mass number indicates either a second measurement or a newer HPGe measurement.

These details help users compare spectra collected under different measurement conditions.

Reference Catalog Downloads

Download complete PDF versions of the INL Gamma-ray Spectrum Catalog for Ge & Si(Li) and NaI(Tl) detectors.

Ge and Si(Li) Spectrum Catalog

Browse spectra collected using Ge and Si(Li) detectors.

Alkali metals Alkaline earth Transition metals Post-transition Metalloids Nonmetals Noble gases Lanthanides / Actinides Unknown / synthetic

NaI Spectrum Catalog

Browse spectra collected using NaI(Tl) detectors. 

Alkali metals Alkaline earth Transition metals Post-transition Metalloids Nonmetals Noble gases Lanthanides / Actinides Unknown / synthetic