Plastic X-Ray Imager could bring down the cost of medical imaging

Researchers at Siemens have discovered a way to print polymer x-ray-sensing panels that work just as well as expensive silicon ones. Using a new printing method, which is similar to the way that cheap plastic solar cells are made, the researchers believe that the approach could bring down the cost of medical imaging systems and be used to make lightweight, flexible imaging panels for procedures such as more comfortable mammograms.

Electrically active polymers hold potential as a cheap alternative to silicon for devices including light sensors, solar cells, and transistors.