Which part of a cassetteless indirect digital radiography (DR) image receptor produces light photons?

In cassetteless indirect digital radiography (DR), the scintillator layer plays a crucial role in converting incoming X-ray photons into visible light photons. When X-rays penetrate through the patient's body and interact with the scintillator, they excite the phosphor material within this layer, which then emits light photons as a result of that interaction. The emitted light is then detected by the underlying photodiode layer, which converts the light photons into an electrical signal for further processing.

Understanding the function of the scintillator layer is essential, as it directly influences the quality of the image produced by the digital radiography system. The efficiency and speed of this conversion process are key factors in the overall performance of the imaging system. Consequently, recognizing the role of the scintillator in producing light photons helps in comprehending the mechanics of indirect digital radiography.