X-ray computed tomography system for laboratory small-object imaging: Enhanced tomography solutions

• Characterization of an X-ray tomograph.
• Determination of spatial resolution limit by the MTF.
• Demonstration of 3D examination capability.
• Enhancement of projections by super resolution POCS algorithm.
• Enhancement of 3D image reconstruction by projections sets reorganization.

A portable X-ray tomography system has been installed and actually being tested at our medical imaging laboratory. This tomography system employs a combination of scintillator screen and CCD camera as image detector. The limit of spatial resolution of 290 μm of this imaging system is determined by the establishment of its modulation transfer function (MTF). In this work, we present attempts to address some issues such as limited resolution and low contrast through the development of affordable post-acquisition solutions based on the application of super-resolution method (projection onto convex sets, POCS) to create new projections set enabling the reconstruction of an improved 3D image in terms of contrast, resolution and noise. In addition to small-object examination, this tomography system is used for hands-on training activities involving students and scientists.