Using an X-Ray Pulse Generator with a Semiconductor Opening Switch for Computed Tomography

Abstract

In this investigation we present a prototype of a computed tomographic scanner, which uses X-ray pulse generator as a radiation source. This X-ray source is of interest due to the fact that the high-voltage pulse generator is based on inductive energy storage and a semiconductor opening switch. Thanks to using a semiconductor opening switch the X-ray pulse repetition rate reaches 5 kHz at the X-ray flash duration of 20 ns. The operation principle of the X-ray tube is founded on the explosive electron emission effect. We use the flat-panel detector CareStream DRX-1 in our research. We have performed scanning the test object, obtained sinograms at rotating the sample from 0 to 180 degrees with the discrete step of 2.5 degrees. With the help of the inverse Radon transform we reconstructed the image of a separate slide. The method demonstrates high resolution of less than 0.5 mm, good sensitivity and leads to reducing radiation exposure.