Field emission x-ray tube for mammography

Larry V. Knight; Hans K. Pew; Arturo Reyes; Hong Liu

doi:10.1117/12.403944

11 October 2000 Field emission x-ray tube for mammography

Larry V. Knight, Hans K. Pew, Arturo Reyes, Hong Liu

Proceedings Volume 4224, Biomedical Photonics and Optoelectronic Imaging; (2000) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.403944
Event: Optics and Optoelectronic Inspection and Control: Techniques, Applications, and Instruments, 2000, Beijing, China

Abstract

We propose to develop a time-gated x-ray imaging technique for screening mamography. If successful, it will greatly improve the accuracy of current mammography with about 50% reduction of current patient radiation. The technique can be applied to other x-ray imaging procedures also. We are now working to determine the feasibility of the key technologies- an x-ray source that can be pulsed on and off at a subnanosecond rate and a detector that can be gated at the same rate- that represent potential roadblocks to achieving this goal. A field emission x-ray tube will be used as the source. The field emission cathode consists of a substrate with sharp points and a metallic grid. A voltage on the grid creates an electric field that produces tunnel emission from the array of tips. The geometry of such a tube make electron optics easier, high currents are possible and the tube can be turned on and off rapidly. It also appears that synchronous electronic gating of the detector is possible.

Citation Download Citation

Larry V. Knight, Hans K. Pew, Arturo Reyes, and Hong Liu "Field emission x-ray tube for mammography", Proc. SPIE 4224, Biomedical Photonics and Optoelectronic Imaging, (11 October 2000); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.403944

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