Real-time flat-panel pixel imaging system and control for X-ray and neutron detection

We present in this paper industrial nondestructive X-ray and neutron testing applications with a real-time digital imaging device and control system X-View based on active matrix flat-panel imager technology. X-View consists of X-ray or neutron converters, arrays of amorphous silicon (a-Si:H) thin-film transistors and photodiodes, a fast real-time electronic system for readout and digitization of images and appropriate computer tools for control, real-time image treatment data representation, and off-line analysis. Some basic image-quality parameters and different objects were assessed for quantitative and qualitative analysis. Results show a wide dynamic range (16 bits ADC resolution) and lack of blooming, a high frame rate (up to 25 fps), and rapid image capture. Images are directly displayed, on-line, on a PC monitor and archived in a digital form for radiography and radioscopy procedures and limitless industrial applications in X-ray and neutron inspections.