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Updated: Jul 10, 2026
11:57
Measuring Spatially- and Directionally-varying Light Scattering from Biological Material
Published on: May 20, 2013
Subsurface bioimaging using angular domain optical backscattering illumination.
F Vasefi1, P K Y Chan, B Kaminska
1Comput. & Integrative Bio-Eng. Res., Simon Fraser Univ., Burnaby, BC Canada V5A 1S6.
Summary
Backscattering angular domain imaging uses micromachined collimators to detect photons in scattering media. This technique improves imaging depth and scattered-to-ballistic photon ratios, even in highly scattering environments.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Optics
- Optical Imaging
- Scattering Media
Background:
- Coherence and time domain optical tomography detect shortest path photons in scattering media.
- Backscattering angular domain imaging offers an alternative approach for imaging within scattering media.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of backscattering angular domain imaging using micromachined collimators.
- To assess the imaging capability in scattering media at various depths and scattered-to-ballistic photon ratios.
Main Methods:
- Utilized micromachined semicircular silicon collimator channels as angular filters.
- Employed front-side illumination to observe phantom test objects in scattering media up to 3 mm deep.
- Investigated the impact of carbon coating on collimator reflectivity using a sputtering system.
Main Results:
- Successfully imaged phantom test objects in scattering media up to 3 mm deep.
- Achieved effective scattered-to-ballistic photon ratios ranging from 1:1 to over 3E12:1.
- Demonstrated the potential of carbon coating to reduce internal reflectivity of collimators.
Conclusions:
- Backscattering angular domain imaging is effective for deep imaging in highly scattering media.
- Micromachined collimators with reduced reflectivity enhance imaging performance.
- This technique shows promise for applications requiring visualization within turbid environments.
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