SU-E-I-99: An Ultra-High Resolution Small Field-Of-View Solid State X-Ray Imaging Detector Based on an Electron...

Area of Science:

• Medical Imaging
• Solid-State Detectors
• X-ray Microscopy

Background:

• Advanced imaging techniques are crucial for visualizing fine biological and material structures.
• Existing methods like magnification radiography have limitations in resolution and equipment requirements.

Purpose of the Study:

• To demonstrate the ultra-high resolution imaging capability of a small field-of-view (FOV) solid-state x-ray detector.
• To evaluate the performance of a micro-solid state x-ray image intensifier (micro-SSXII) for specialized applications.

Main Methods:

• Developed a micro-SSXII using an 8-micron electron multiplying CCD (EMCCD) coupled to a CsI(Tl) phosphor.
• Measured the modulation transfer function (MTF) using the slanted edge method.
• Imaged a rat kidney cast and mammography test object at 50 kVp to visually assess resolution.

Main Results:

• Achieved an MTF of 5% at 20 cycles/mm, consistent with imaging the highest resolution test object group.
• Clearly visualized 25-micron iodine bubbles in rat kidney vessels.
• Demonstrated effective visualization of fine structures beyond the capability of surface imagers.

Conclusions:

• The micro-SSXII offers ultra-high resolution (>20 lp/mm) within a small FOV (8 mm).
• Potential applications include detailed vascular specimen analysis and imaging subsurface structures.
• Presents a promising alternative to magnification radiography, overcoming limitations of microfocus x-ray tubes.