High-energy high-dose microfocus X-ray computed tomography driven by high-average-current photo-injector

Area of Science:

• Medical Imaging
• Materials Science
• Physics

Background:

• High-Energy, High-Dose, Microfocus X-ray Computed Tomography (HHM CT) is crucial for inspecting high-density, fine-structured samples.
• Improving spatial resolution and image quality in HHM CT relies on minimizing the X-ray source's effective focal spot size.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and present a 9 MeV HHM CT prototype.
• To achieve a small focal spot size for enhanced imaging performance.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a high-average-current photo-injector to generate tightly focused electron beams (65/66μm).
• Employed an optimized tungsten target to produce X-rays with a ~70μm focal spot size.
• Conducted experiments using digital radiography (DR) and computed tomography (CT) modes with specialized resolution phantoms.

Main Results:

• Achieved a 6 lp/mm resolution in DR mode using a 0.1mm lead phantom.
• Obtained a 5 lp/mm resolution in CT mode with a 10mm ferrum phantom.
• Demonstrated superior imaging of a turbine blade prototype compared to common CT systems.

Conclusions:

• The developed 9 MeV HHM CT prototype successfully achieved a small focal spot size, enabling high-resolution imaging.
• The system shows significant potential for non-destructive inspection and testing of high-density, fine-structure samples.
• This advancement offers improved capabilities for material analysis and quality control.