Which type of materials are common in the design of CT detectors?

Silicon and Gadolinium are commonly used in the design of CT detectors due to their effective properties for detecting and converting X-ray photons into an electronic signal. Silicon, as a semiconductor, provides high sensitivity and is adept at producing the electrical signals necessary for image creation. Gadolinium, particularly in the form of Gadolinium Oxysulphide (GOS) or other scintillation materials, is used for its ability to efficiently convert X-rays into visible light, making it suitable for the solid-state detectors that provide improved image quality and speed.

Using these materials enhances the overall performance of CT scanners, allowing for better resolution and sensitivity in imaging, which is crucial for accurate diagnoses. The properties of these materials make them ideal for the high-energy environments present in CT imaging, where rapid and precise detection of X-ray measurements is essential.