A Novel Approach for Estimating the Effective Atomic Number Using Dual Energy
- Author:
Jeong Heon KIM
1
;
So Hyun AHN
;
Kwang Woo PARK
;
Jin Sung KIM
Author Information
- Publication Type:Original Article
- From: Progress in Medical Physics 2025;36(1):1-7
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Purpose:This study aimed to present a novel method for estimating the effective atomic number(Zeff ) using dual-energy computed tomography (DECT) designed to improve accuracy andstreamline clinical workflows by reducing computational complexity.
Methods:The proposed model leverages the DECT-derived mass attenuation coefficients without detailed compositional analysis. By incorporating additional parameters into the conventional Rutherford model, such as exponential and trigonometric functions, the model effectively capturescomplex variations in attenuation, enabling precise Zeff estimation. Model fitting was performedusing dual-energy data and evaluated using the percentage difference in error rates.
Results:Compared with the Rutherford model, which recorded a maximum error rate of 0.55%, the proposed model demonstrated a significantly lower maximum error rate of 0.15%, highlightingits precision. Zeff estimates for various materials closely matched the reference values, confirmingthe improved accuracy of the model.
Conclusions:The proposed DECT-based model provides a practical and efficient approach to Zeff estimation, with potential applications in radiation oncology, particularly for accurate stopping power ratio calculations in proton and heavy ion therapies.
