Process Studies On Higher Sensitivity Xeromammography

Laboratory studies and results of our work to reduce the x-ray exposure of xeromammographic examinations are described. Significant exposure reduction was achieved and demonstrated with breast phantom images through improved photoreceptor sensitivity and a higher sensitivity electrostatic image development process. The contributions of x-ray absorption and discharge efficiency of an experimental selenium photoreceptor are discussed. Development of the latent charge image on the photoreceptor with an electrophoretic process is explained, and the impact of key variables such as covering power and other toner properties on this process are analyzed. Phantom images of the present commercial xeroradiographic system are compared to those made with the experimental higher sensitivity process and are discussed in light of image quality criteria.