Which component of an indirect capture flat-panel detector converts incident x-ray photons into visible light photons?

The scintillation layer plays a crucial role in the indirect capture flat-panel detector by converting the incoming x-ray photons into visible light photons. When x-ray photons hit the scintillation material, typically comprised of certain phosphor materials, they interact with the atoms in the scintillator. This interaction leads to the emission of visible light, usually in the form of photons that can then be detected by the next components in the system, such as the photodiodes.

This process is essential in indirect digital radiography because it enables the capture of the image with a higher quality and efficiency. The emitted visible light is then converted into an electronic signal, which is later processed to create the final digital radiographic image. The other components mentioned, such as the charge-coupled device and photodiode, play roles in the signal detection and image construction but do not participate in the conversion of x-ray photons to visible light. The image processor is primarily responsible for analyzing and reconstructing the image rather than photon conversion.