Recent Developments in X-ray Imaging Technology
Citation
Lanier, Robert G. Recent Developments in X-ray Imaging Technology. Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, 3 Oct. 2012.
Keywords
- X-ray imaging technology
- Homeland Security applications
- Flat panel detectors
- Amorphous Selenium (a-Se)
- Cesium Iodide (CsI)
- Cadmium-Zinc-Telluride (CZT)
- Scintillators
- Computed Tomography (CT)
- Baggage scanning
- Linear x-ray scanning
- Dual energy imaging
Brief
This source does not contain information relevant to the article "3D Printing Mesoscale Optical Components with a Low-Cost Resin Printer Integrated with a Fiber-Optic Taper" published in ACS Photonics.
Summary
The technical report "Recent Developments in X-ray Imaging Technology" (October 3, 2012), authored by Robert G. Lanier of Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, reviews the latest advancements in x-ray imaging hardware. The report primarily focuses on technologies relevant to US Homeland Security interests, particularly in baggage screening applications. The report highlights several key areas of development:
- Flat Panel Imagers: The report emphasizes Fujifilm's 17" x 17" flat panel detectors, particularly their transition from amorphous selenium (a-Se) to Cesium Iodide (CsI) technology due to its superior performance and cost-effectiveness. Dexela's CMOS-based flat panel detectors are also noted for their high resolution and potential advantages over TFT technology.
- Scintillators: The report underscores the importance of efficient scintillators like GE Healthcare's Gemstone™ for reducing patient dose in medical CT applications. Gemstone™ is highlighted for its superior performance characteristics compared to other options like GOS.
- Cadmium-Zinc-Telluride (CZT) Imaging Devices: The report discusses the growing use of CZT detectors in medical imaging, particularly in cardiac imaging systems. The development of CZT-based baggage scanning systems like Endicott's ABIS and Redlen's upcoming commercial unit is highlighted, particularly in the context of addressing the EU ban on liquid carry-ons. The report dives into the technical details of CZT arrays, highlighting the development of a new "XENA™" IC for enhanced energy-binning and rate capabilities.
- Linear x-ray Scanning Devices: The report examines the advantages of linear scanning techniques for large field imaging and minimizing scattered radiation. Dual-energy line-scanning devices from Hamamatsu Photonics (C10800 series) and X-Scan Imaging Corporation (XD8800 and XDR8800 Series) are recommended for scrutiny, emphasizing their ability to differentiate materials based on density and composition.
The report includes several appendices that provide detailed information on specific technologies like CZT detectors, scintillators, and CMOS detectors. It also presents an extensive survey of commercially available detectors and scintillators. The report concludes with a bibliography of relevant articles for further exploration of emerging x-ray imaging technologies.