How is synchrotron light used?
At the NSLS, synchrotron x-ray light and special X-ray optics are used to produce diffraction-enhanced images of the cartilage in osteoarthritic knees. The DEI method uses a single-energy (monochromatic) fan beam of X-rays instead of the broad-energy beam used in conventional imaging. The object is scanned through the beam. The key to the new imaging method is an analyzer crystal placed between the object and the X-ray detector. The analyzer can differentiate between X-rays that are traveling much less than one ten thousandth of a degree apart. This method of line scan imaging reduces scatter and helps to visualize low-contrast areas that otherwise would be lost. Also at the NSLS, infrared light is used to study the chemical composition of bone in monkeys with OA. Using an infrared microscope, an intense beam of infrared light is focused through a very small sample of bone. Scientist are using this technique to image the subchondral bone, which is the layer of bone underneath the joint
