PARAMETRIC X-RAY GENERATION FROM MODERATE ENERGY ELECTRON-BEAMS

We have examined parametric X-ray radiation (pXR) as a low cost, pulse d, tuneable X-ray source. In contrast to synchrotron radiation (SR), P XR requires only moderate beam energies produced by conventional linea r accelerators. We have determined the maximum PXR intensity that can be achieved from simple crystals placed in a high current, relativisti c electron beam. PXR compares favorably to SR on a per electron and pu lsed basis. Our calculations and experiments indicate that PXR is a us eful source for applications requiring X-rays with energies of a few k eV to several tens of keV. For example, we have shown that a PXR sourc e is a viable alternative to SR for digital subtraction angiography ba sed on tuning about the 33 keV iodine K-edge.