TU/e Scientists Develop Compact Hard X-ray Machine
Eindhoven, Wednesday, 4 December 2024.
Researchers at Eindhoven University have created a compact X-ray device, significantly advancing medical imaging and industrial applications by offering an efficient and cost-effective solution.
Breakthrough in X-ray Technology
A team of researchers at Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e) has successfully developed a compact hard X-ray machine, marking a significant milestone in photonics research. Led by Professor Jom Luiten and Peter Mutsaers, the team announced their breakthrough in September 2024, with the successful operation of a device measuring just 1.5 by 3 meters [1]. This innovation represents a middle ground between conventional weak X-ray tubes and massive synchrotron facilities [1].
Technical Innovation and Capabilities
The compact device achieves remarkable particle acceleration, with electrons traveling at 99.995% of the speed of light [1]. What makes this system particularly valuable is its ability to produce tunable hard X-rays, allowing researchers to visualize any element on the periodic table with high measurement accuracy [1]. The machine operates using the same physical principles as large synchrotrons but achieves this in a dramatically reduced footprint that can fit within an average-sized laboratory or shipping container [1].
Applications in Art and Heritage
One of the most promising applications for this technology lies in the field of art conservation and analysis. The device’s compact nature makes it particularly suitable for museum settings, where it could revolutionize the study of historical artworks [1]. This represents a significant advancement over current practices, which require transportation of valuable artworks to large synchrotron facilities like the ESRF in Grenoble [1].
Future Development and Collaboration
The project, which began in 2018 with funding from Interreg Flanders-Netherlands, continues to evolve [1]. The research team is now collaborating with partners from TU Delft, Antwerp, and Ghent to enhance the technology for specific applications [1]. Professor Luiten has expressed optimism about making the instrument even more compact, suggesting further innovations may be on the horizon [1]. The next phase focuses on creating a proof of concept specifically for examining paintings, demonstrating the practical applications of this breakthrough technology [1].