X-Ray Polarization Imaging
Abstract
Conventional mammography only evaluates the spatial arrangement of tissue in the breast as it depends upon the fact that some materials absorb A-rays more than other materials (the x-ray energy must be deposited in the body to produce an image). We propose: to investigate the potential of x-ray polarization imaging, by building an x-ray polarimeter (a device designed to measure polarization) and determine the factors that affect polarimeter design. Polarization radiography has the potential to supplement mammographic images with information about the function, composition, and metabolism of the breast. We plan to perform fundamental experiments regarding x-ray polarization to determine whether the effect is sufficiently large to allow it to be used to produce images. We also wish to measure the ability of key biological materials, including breast tissue, to alter the polarization of x-rays, and determine the accuracy with which we can measure this effect. This research is quite clearly, speculative, but the program described in the grant would give the experimental data necessary to clearly understand the benefits and limitations of attempting to image tissue using polarized x-rays. This annual report presents our research to date.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 01, 2004
- Accession Number
- ADA429084
Entities
People
- Andrew D. Maidment
Organizations
- University of Pennsylvania