Which material is responsible for storing the latent image within the computed radiography (CR) imaging plate?

The photo-stimulable phosphor (PSP) is the material responsible for storing the latent image within the computed radiography (CR) imaging plate. When X-rays interact with the PSP, they excite electrons within the material, which then become trapped in the phosphor matrix, creating a latent image that is not visible until the plate is processed.

During the processing phase, the PSP is exposed to a stimulating light (often from a laser), which causes the trapped electrons to be released, emitting light in the process. This emitted light is then converted into a digital signal, allowing for the creation of a visual image. This mechanism is fundamental to computed radiography, distinguishing it from digital detectors, X-ray film, and conventional film, which either use different imaging principles or do not retain the latent image in the same way as PSP does.