Phase-contrast X-ray imaging ‘could offer significant advances’

A new X-ray imaging technique could offer more precise performance for a range of medical uses and other applications, according to research.

Scientists from University College London have developed a new approach to phase-contrast X-ray imaging that, instead of measuring the extent to which tissue or materials absorb radiation, looks at the physical effect that passing through different types of material has on the speed of the X-ray itself.

This makes it possible to determine different shapes and types of matter in a way that would only be possible with conventional X-rays by using prohibitively high doses of radiation.

The technique was first created several decades ago, but until now its applications have been limited to large-scale synchrotron facilities, such as Oxfordshire's Diamond Light Source.

Project leader Professor Alessandro Olivo said: "We've now advanced this embryonic technology to make it viable for day-to-day use in medicine, security applications, industrial production lines, materials science, non-destructive testing, the archaeology and heritage sector, and a whole range of other fields."

Potential uses for this technology include the identification of tumours in living tissue at an early stage, or the spotting small cracks and defects in materials.

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