A simple benchtop apparatus has been built, to measure the x-ray imaging properties of fluorozirconate-based glassceramic
x-ray storage phosphor materials. The MTF degradation due to stimulating light spreading in the plate is lower
in comparison to optically turbid screens resulting in higher image MTF. In addition, the degree of transparency, or the
amount of light scattering at the wavelength of the stimulating (laser) light is adjustable by means of the glass preparation
process. The amount of stimulating exposure required for plate readout is generally higher than in previous systems,
but well within the range of commercially available laser systems, for practical readout times. The effects of flare
or unwanted readout due to back-reflection from the imaging plate is also less than in previous systems.
A novel telecentric scanning system has been developed that is able to rapidly read out the latent image stored in the
translucent imaging plates. This system features a reflective primary scan mirror to achieve telecentricity, optical correction
for scan line bow, and the design should enable the construction of a relatively inexpensive scanner system for
the translucent x-ray storage plates.
This paper was published in SPIE Proceedings Vol. 7622
