Two factors affecting the quality of a CT image are geometrical unsharpness and random noise. Geometrical unsharpness limits the spatial resolution of a CT system, that is, its ability to image fine structural detail in an object. Random noise limits the contrast sensitivity of a CT system, that is, its ability to detect the presence or absence of features in an object. Spatial resolution and contrast sensitivity may be measured in various ways. ASTM specifies spatial resolution be quantified in terms of the modulation transfer function (MTF) and contrast sensitivity be quantified in terms of the contrast discrimination function (CDF) (see Guide E 1441 and Practice E 1570). This test method allows the purchaser or the provider of CT systems or services, or both, to measure and specify spatial resolution and contrast sensitivity.

1.1 This test method provides instruction for determining the spatial resolution and contrast sensitivity in X-ray and -ray computed tomography (CT) images. The determination is based on examination of the CT image of a uniform disk of material. The spatial resolution measurement is derived from an image analysis of the sharpness at the edge of the disk. The contrast sensitivity measurement is derived from an image analysis of the statistical noise at the center of the disk.

1.2 This test method is more quantitative and less susceptible to interpretation than alternative approaches because the required disk is easy to fabricate and the analysis is immune to cupping artifacts. This test method may not yield meaningful results if the disk image occupies less than a significant fraction of the field of view.

1.3 This test method may also be used to evaluate other performance parameters. Among those characteristics of a CT system that are detectable with this test method are: the mid-frequency enhancement of the reconstruction kernel, the presence (or absence) of detector crosstalk, the undersampling of views, and the clipping of unphysical (that is, negative) CT numbers (see Air Force Technical Report WL-TR-94-4021). It is highly likely that other characteristics as well can be detected with this test method.

1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. Inch-pound units are provided for information only.

This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.