Wire transfer function analysis for castellated dual-energy x-ray detectors

An investigation into the spatial resolving power of a castellated linear dual-energy x-ray detector array is reported. The detector was developed for use in aviation security screening applications. Experiments employing different gauges of lead wire are used to plot a wire transfer function. A numerical simulation is developed to predict and underpin the empirical results. The suitable processing of the castellated detector signals helps to maintain spatial resolving power while affording a 50% reduction in x-ray sensing elements. This encouraging result has formed the basis for an ongoing investigation into materials discrimination capability of the castellated detector array. (C) 2004 Optical Society of America.