Quantitative X-Ray Phase-Contrast Microtomography from a Compact Laser Driven Betatron Source

TL;DR

This paper demonstrates the use of laser-driven Betatron X-ray sources for quantitative phase-contrast microtomography, showing potential for compact, high-coherence imaging in biomedical and materials science applications.

Contribution

First demonstration of phase-contrast microtomography using laser-driven Betatron X-ray sources with comprehensive source characterization.

Findings

First quantitative electron density measurement of a biological sample using Betatron X-rays

Betatron X-ray source provides high spatial coherence and spectral stability

Potential to replace large-scale synchrotrons with compact laser-driven sources

Abstract

X-ray phase-contrast imaging has recently led to a revolution in resolving power and tissue contrast in biomedical imaging, microscopy and materials science. The necessary high spatial coherence is currently provided by either large-scale synchrotron facilities with limited beamtime access or by microfocus X-ray tubes with rather limited flux. X-rays radiated by relativistic electrons driven by well-controlled high-power lasers offer a promising route to a proliferation of this powerful imaging technology. A laser-driven plasma wave accelerates and wiggles electrons, giving rise to brilliant keV X-ray emission. This so-called Betatron radiation is emitted in a collimated beam with excellent spatial coherence and remarkable spectral stability. Here we present the first phase-contrast micro-tomogram revealing quantitative electron density values of a biological sample using betatron X-rays, and a comprehensive source characterization. Our results suggest that laser-based X-ray technology offers the potential for filling the large performance gap between synchrotron- and current X-ray tube-based sources.