A high-resolution Schottky CdTe detector based spectrometric determination method of the kilovoltage applied to dental X-ray tubes

Abstract

The aim of this study was to develop a Method to determine, under clinical conditions, the diagnostic Dental X-ray equipment emitted spectra, by employing a high-resolution Schottky CdTe detector, in order to accurately determine the actually applied kilovoltage on the Tube. The analysis of X-ray spectra is important for quality assurance (QA) and quality control (QC) of Radiographic systems, and according to the European Guidelines on Radiation Protection in dental Radiology, 65-70 kV is recommended as the kilovoltage of choice for dental (intraoral) X-ray sets using AC equipment, and 60 kV for those using DC X ray sets. Since kilovoltage in this equipment is usually, either fixed, or minimally variable, the spectrometric determination of the employed High-Voltage is the most accurate method. The Molybdenum 17.5 keV and 19.6 keV characteristic spectral lines from a Mammography System and the Isotope 241Am 59.5 keV line have been employed for the Energy Calibration of the system. Dental X-ray equipment of various types and manufacturers has been tested with the developed method. © 2009 Springer Berlin Heidelberg.