Single-shot, omni-directional x-ray scattering imaging with a laboratory source and single-photon localization

Abstract

Omni-directional, ultra small angle X-ray scattering imaging provides a method to measure the orientation of micro-structures without having to resolve them. In this letter, we use single-photon localization with the Timepix3 chip to demonstrate the first laboratory-based implementation of single-shot, omni-directional X-ray scattering imaging with the beam-tracking technique. The setup allows for a fast and accurate retrieval of the scattering signal using a simple absorption mask. We suggest that our new approach may enable faster laboratory-based tensor tomography and could be used for energy resolved X-ray scattering imaging, useful in mitigate scattering signal artifacts caused by polychromatic illumination. 2020The measurement of ultra small angle X-ray scattering from sub-resolution sample structures is within X-ray imaging commonly referred to as the dark-field contrast [1,2]. The dark-field contrast has potential within both non-destructive testing [3,4] and medical [5] applications as it

Tracking based, high-resolution single-shot multimodal x-ray imaging in the laboratory enabled by the sub-pixel resolution capabilities of the MÖNCH detector

“…In summary, we have shown a range of preliminary results indicating that a setup based on the MÖNCH detector enables obtaining reliable thickness maps and directional scatter images from single-shot images acquired without any movement of the mask and/or the sample, with resolution determined by the beamlet spacing at the sample (19.5 m). In terms of resolution obtained for single-shot multi-modal images, this is almost 8 times smaller than the previously obtained using Timepix3 19 . We experienced problems with the accurate determination of the various image channels as a function of narrow energy bins, in particular at low energy, possibly caused by coherent scattering from the sample supports and fluorescence emission from the detector board (mainly copper), due to a non-negligible fraction of X-rays transmitted through the silicon sensor.…”

“…This enables single-shot retrieval of multimodal images with limited requirements on beam coherence and setup alignment, albeit at a resolution equal to the mask period. Beam-tracking with 2D sensitivity was demonstrated using single photon localization with a Timepix3 detector 18 , making it possible to simultaneously measure directional scattering and differential phase 19 . However, this required a skipped mask, i.e.…”

Fast acquisition protocol for X-ray scattering tensor tomography

“…The proposed rapid acquisition protocols with minimal acquisition overhead coupled with bright X-ray sources will unlock time-resolved X-ray scattering tensor tomography capabilities. The acquisition protocols are potentially compatible and attractive for any other method providing omnidirectional scattering sensitivity in a single shot 22 , 23 , because the same logic for the null space and the simulation analysis can be applied. The null space analysis framework shown in this manuscript is potentially a good tool to assess acquisition geometry for any tensor tomography method.…”

Edge-illumination x-ray phase-contrast imaging

“…The method works well with photon counting detectors, especially if mechanisms to handle charge sharing effects are available (e.g. [ 121 ]). These detectors, however, are currently only available in small areas, mostly for scientific use.…”