TU Eindhoven Unveils Breakthrough Compact Hard X-ray Machine
Eindhoven, Tuesday, 13 May 2025.
TU Eindhoven researchers achieve a major milestone by creating a compact hard X-ray machine, holding promise for breakthroughs in medical diagnostics and industrial applications.
Breakthrough in X-ray Technology
Scientists at Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e) have successfully developed a groundbreaking compact hard X-ray machine, marking a significant advancement in imaging technology. The achievement comes from a research team led by Professor Jom Luiten and his PhD students Ids van Elk and Coen Sweers [1]. The working prototype, measuring 1.5 x 3 meters, is currently housed in the basement of the Qubit building at TU/e [1].
Technical Innovation and Capabilities
The device represents a remarkable advancement in X-ray technology, offering precise control over X-ray energy levels. According to Professor Luiten, the machine’s uniqueness lies in its ability to accurately adjust to specific materials: ‘This source is special because the energy of the X-rays can be very accurately adjusted to the material you want to detect. You can tune it to visualize any periodic table element’ [1]. This capability makes it particularly suitable for examining paintings, silicon wafers, and biological material without causing damage [1].
Development Journey and Future Applications
The project, initiated in 2018 with funding from Interreg Flanders-Netherlands and government contributions, persevered despite delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic [1]. The research team is now collaborating with partners from TU Delft, University of Antwerp, and Ghent University to refine the radiation targeting, enhance detection equipment, and improve data analysis capabilities [1]. Potential applications extend beyond art conservation to include critical medical applications, such as researching atherosclerosis and examining lung tissue with early-stage COVID damage [1].
Art Conservation and Cultural Heritage
The innovation was initially inspired by art historian and materials scientist Joris Dik from Delft University of Technology, who sought to use X-rays for examining painting layers [1]. Traditional X-ray equipment capable of such precision, like synchrotrons, are typically large and expensive, making them impractical for museum use [1]. This compact alternative promises to revolutionize how cultural heritage institutions conduct detailed analysis of artworks [1].