High-dose-rate pulse x-ray detection using a multipixel photon counter

Detection of high-dose-rate pulse x-rays from a samarium plasma flash x-ray generator utilizing a multipixel photon counter is described. Monochromatic K-series characteristic x-rays are detected by a plastic scintillator, and fluorescent lights are lead to the photon counter through a 10-m-length plastic fiber. The reverse bias was 70.0 V, and x-ray outputs were recorded by a digital storage scope. The samarium plasma flash x-ray generator is useful for performing high-speed enhanced K-edge angiography using cone beams because K-series characteristic x-rays from the samarium target are absorbed effectively by iodine-based contrast media. In the flash x-ray generator, a 150 nF condenser is charged up to 80 kV by a power supply, and flash x-rays are produced by the discharging. Since the electric circuit of the high-voltage pulse generator employs a cable transmission line, the high-voltage pulse generator produces twice the potential of the condenser charging voltage. At a charging voltage of 80 kV, the estimated maximum tube voltage and current are approximately 160 kV and 40 kA, respectively. When the charging voltage was increased, the K-series characteristic x-ray intensities of samarium increased. Bremsstrahlung x-ray intensity rate decreased with increasing the charging voltage, and K lines were produced with a charging voltage of 80 kV. The x-ray pulse widths were approximately 100 ns, and the time-integrated x-ray intensity had a value of approximately 500 μGy at 1.0 m from the x-ray source with a charging voltage of 80 kV. Angiography was performed using a filmless computed radiography (CR) system and iodine-based contrast media. In the angiography of nonliving animals, we observed fine blood vessels of approximately 100 μm with high contrasts.