PyPhase - a Python package for X-ray phase imaging

Area of Science:

• Physics
• Materials Science
• Computational Imaging

Background:

• X-ray imaging techniques, particularly propagation-based methods, are crucial in scientific research.
• Current phase-retrieval algorithms are often instrument-specific and complex, hindering broader adoption.
• The need for accessible and versatile phase-retrieval tools is evident in synchrotron and laboratory-based imaging.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce PyPhase, a free and open-source software package for near-field phase reconstruction.
• To provide a modular framework for implementing and developing phase-retrieval algorithms.
• To facilitate the deployment of these algorithms on diverse computational infrastructures, including large-scale facilities.

Main Methods:

• PyPhase implements popular phase-retrieval algorithms within a modular architecture.
• The software supports deployment on high-performance computing resources.
• Algorithm capabilities are demonstrated using experimental data from the MAX IV synchrotron source.

Main Results:

• PyPhase offers a user-friendly and adaptable solution for X-ray phase reconstruction.
• The modular design simplifies the integration and development of new algorithms.
• Successful application to synchrotron data showcases its practical utility and ease of use.

Conclusions:

• PyPhase democratizes access to advanced X-ray phase-retrieval techniques.
• Its open-source nature and modular design foster collaboration and innovation in imaging science.
• The package streamlines the application of phase-retrieval algorithms across different experimental setups.