Noise analysis of speckle-based x-ray phase-contrast imaging

Area of Science:

• Medical Imaging
• Experimental Mechanics

Background:

• Speckle-based x-ray phase-contrast imaging is gaining interest due to its simplicity, cost-efficiency, and adaptability to laboratory sources.
• This technique offers multimodal imaging capabilities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the noise properties of speckle-based x-ray phase-contrast imaging.
• To provide insights for method optimization and comparison with other phase-contrast techniques.

Main Methods:

• Adapted an analytical model from digital image correlation for assessing differential phase signal noise.
• Supported the model with simulations and experimental validation.

Main Results:

• The analytical model successfully characterized noise in speckle-based x-ray phase-contrast imaging.
• The noise behavior of the differential phase signal was found to be similar to that of grating-based methods.

Conclusions:

• The developed model aids in understanding and optimizing speckle-based x-ray phase-contrast imaging.
• The similarity in noise properties suggests potential for cross-comparison and shared advancements with grating-based methods.