Beta backscatter radiography

Description

An imaging technique that uses electrons emitted from the object to form the image. Beta backscatter radiography is conducted by placing photographic film on top of and in close contact with the object. Air gaps will deteriorate the image quality. The object and film are then irradiated with high-energy x-rays. The x-rays pass through the film without being absorbed. When the x-rays penetrate the object, they are absorbed and the energy is reemitted in all directions as electron beta rays. The image is formed by the emitted beta rays that strike the film. Heavy elements have higher emission rates than lighter elements and thus the image relates to the elemental composition of the object's surface. Beta backscatter radiography has been used on metallic inks, degraded stained glass, wood panels and radio-opaque supports (Knight 1989).

Synonyms and Related Terms

electron emission radiography; beta-ray backscatter; émissiographie (Fr.); radiographie par rééemission d'électrons (Fr.);

Additional Information

B.Knight "Imaging the Design on Corroded Mediaeval Window Glass by Beta-Backscatter Radiography" Studies in Conservation 34:207-211, 1989.