Influence of tube voltage and current on in-line phase contrast imaging using a microfocus x-ray source

In-line x-ray phase contrast imaging has attracted much attention due to two major advantages: its effectiveness in imaging weakly absorbing materials, and the simplicity of its facilities. In this paper a comprehensive theory based on Wigner distribution developed by Wu and Liu [Med. Phys. 31 2378-2384 (2004)] is reviewed. The influence of x-ray source and detector on the image is discussed. Experiments using a microfocus x-ray source and a CCD detector are conducted, which show the role of two key factors on imaging: the tube voltage and tube current. High tube current and moderate tube voltage are suggested for imaging. © 2007 Chin. Phys. Soc. and IOP Publishing Ltd.