Optimization and Experimental Studies of a Dual - Kinestatic Charge Detector.

The kinestatic charge detector, or KCD, is method of diagnostic digital x-ray imaging that is being investigated for its potential in dual-energy imaging, in which two measurements of x-ray attenuation are combined to produce images which reflect either low or high density material in the patient. The detector system consists of a high pressure gas chamber which scans across the patient in conjunction with a slot x-ray beam geometry. Theoretical optimization of the detector design is performed by empirical modeling and is simulated with Monte Carlo techniques. Construction of a research detector has been completed and the optimal design parameters were evaluated experimentally. Specifically the efficient use of x-ray energy, referred to as quantum efficiency, was evaluated, and its potential for sensitivity to the energy of attenuated photons was determined by a new technique. From measurements of mean photon energy attenuated by the detector, the parameters which determine the performance of the dual-energy design were estimated. The linearity and sensitivity of the detector were also evaluated. While the experimental limitations of electronic noise and x -ray source were shown to be primary limiting factors, the inherent potential of the KCD method for dual-energy imaging was demonstrated.