Use of National Physical Laboratory facilities by SME to optimise Field Emitters for use in X-ray generation for higher energy applications

"Need: Computed Tomography (CT) capability in many hospitals worldwide is under-constraint, resulting in delays to planned procedures. CT scans are expensive per scan, and the increasing use (\>10% per year) is driving costs beyond inflation.

Challenge: There is a need for a lower-cost, lower-dose 3D imaging capability in healthcare. The Adaptix Flat Panel Source facilitates a highly portable and low-cost, low-dose 3D 'Digital Tomosynthesis' solution with enhanced resolution. Variability in X-ray emission from different areas in the flat panel needs to be identified and mitigated.

Significance: 3D imaging is a fundamental clinical tool as it provides exquisite detail in images thereby enhancing the sensitivity and specificity of diagnosis. Variability in source emission restricts the quality of 3D images. Limited lifetime of the emitters is a hurdle to their commercialisation.

Innovation: Surface analytical methods with sub-micrometre spatial resolution will enable understanding of the reasons for emitter variability and failure, and thereby the identification of mitigation strategies. Outcome: This project is part of developing a reliable 3D imaging solution, small (circa 20kg) and cheap enough (<$100,000) to be deployed on a mobile basis within hospitals and polyclinics.

The work done under this project will be performed in conjunction with the National Physical Laboratory (NPL) and will build upon an earlier 'Analysis for Innovator' project but ocussed on even higher power output that is suited for General Radiology. It will extend the understand the reason for variation in emitter tip performance and aid developments that enhance lifetime, reduce variation and reduce manufacturing costs. Further variation in emitter coatings and structure will be made and tested in a series of iterations."