Metrological traceability for simulations of ionizing radiation transport
The Simulation Comparison Database (SCDB) provides a systematic framework for verifying Monte Carlo radiation transport software through rigorous inter-comparisons, modelled after the BIPM Key Comparison Database (KCDB). This SCDB-RI repository pertains to Monte Carlo simulations for ionizing radiation (RI, for Rayonnement Ionisant).
Just as the KCDB establishes equivalence between measurement standards maintained by National Metrology Institutes (NMIs), the SCDB establishes equivalence between simulation results produced by different Monte Carlo software, creating a traceable foundation for computational ionizing radiation transport.
Monte Carlo simulations are essential for radiation dosimetry, treatment planning, industrial radiation processing, and radiation protection. Yet unlike experimental measurements, simulations lack:
- Systematic software comparisons with quantified degrees of equivalence
- Reference values calculated from first principles
- Certified simulation capabilities analogous to Calibration and Measurement Capabilities (CMCs)
- Public database of validated simulation accuracy and efficiency
- Traceability chain to verified simulation results
Current practice relies on ad-hoc literature comparisons and uncoordinated validation studies. Each research group validates independently, making results difficult to compare and trust difficult to establish.
SCDB implements the KCDB model for simulations:
| KCDB Concept | SCDB Implementation |
|---|---|
| Key Comparison (KC) | Simulation Comparison (SC) |
| Pilot Laboratory | Pilot Coordinator |
| Transfer Standard | Shared geometry and source specifications |
| Reference Value (KCRV) | Simulation reference value (SCRV) |
| Degrees of Equivalence | Quantified deviation from SCRV with uncertainties |
| Certified Measurement Capabilities | Certified Simulation Capabilities |
| Participating NMIs | Participating MC Software |
| Public KCDB Database | Public github.com Repository |