Multicontrast x‐ray computed tomography imaging using Talbot‐Lau interferometry without phase stepping

Purpose: The purpose of this work is to demonstrate that multicontrast computed tomography (CT) imaging can be performed using a Talbot‐Lau interferometer without phase stepping, thus allowing for an acquisition scheme like that used for standard absorption CT. Methods: Rather than using phase stepping to extract refraction, small‐angle scattering (SAS), and absorption signals, the two gratings of a Talbot‐Lau interferometer were rotated slightly to generate a moiré pattern on the detector. A Fourier analysis of the moiré pattern was performed to obtain separate projection images of each of the three contrast signals, all from the same single‐shot of x‐ray exposure. After the signals were extracted from the detector data for all view angles, image reconstruction was performed to obtain absorption, refraction, and SAS CT images. A physical phantom was scanned to validate the proposed data acquisition method. The results were compared with a phantom scan using the standard phase stepping approach. Results: The reconstruction of each contrast mechanism produced the expected results. Signal levels and contrasts match those obtained using the phase stepping technique. Conclusions: Absorption, refraction, and SAS CT imaging can be achieved using the Talbot‐Lau interferometer without the additional overhead of long scan time and phase stepping.