Light output and x-ray attenuation measurements at mammographic beam qualities for nine commercial intensifying screens.

Abstract

X-ray attenuation and intensity of light emitted were measured for nine intensifying screens used in mammography. Incident beam qualities with half value layers in the range of 0.38 to 2.68 mm Al were used to simulate the range of clinical conditions encountered in mammography. All the screens attenuated the x-ray beam to a similar extent at these beam qualities, but a wide variation in the intensity of light emitted was observed. The interrelation of the measured physical parameters in determining both the system speed and noise properties is discussed.