Image-plate sensitivity to x rays at 2 to 60 keV

Abstract

The sensitivity of Fuji SR and MS image plates (IPs) used in x-ray spectrometers on OMEGA and the National Ignition Facility has been measured using two techniques. A set of radioisotopes has been used to constrain image-plate sensitivity between 6 and 60 keV, while a Manson source has been used to expose image plates to x rays at energies between 1.5 and 8 keV. These data have shown variation in sensitivity on the order of 5% for a given IP type and scanner settings. The radioisotope technique has also been used to assess IP fading properties for MS-type plates over long times. IP sensitivity as a function of scanner settings and pixel size has been systematically examined, showing variations of up to a factor of 2 depending on the IP type. Cross-calibration of IP scanners at different facilities is necessary to produce a consistent absolute sensitivity curve spanning the energy range of 2-60 keV.