CRCBID is developing a pixel array detector capable of both photon counting and spectroscopy. The core enabling technology is state-of-the-art silicon fabrication that allows high functionality to be implemented in small pixels.

Pixel array or photon counting detectors are significantly superior to the integrating methods used in X-ray imaging today, but to date it has proved too difficult to count photons fast enough to generate an image in a reasonable time for clinical diagnosis.

Photon counting detectors typically have less noise than integrating devices and are also able to simultaneously measure the position of photon interaction. The reason that counting detectors are not generally employed for x-ray imaging is that technology limitations mean that counting speeds are not fast enough to record a diagnostic image in a clinically reasonable time. As well as fast photon counting, CRC BID is working on the functional design needed for energy resolution.

Such detectors will prospectively allow major improvements in x-ray imaging, including reduced dose image acquisition and tissue as well as disease specific contrast.

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