The photon interaction cross sections of blood

Abstract

The photon interaction cross sections which contain the photoelectric absorption, coherent (Rayleigh) and incoherent (Compton) scattering are calculated for blood in the energy range of 1-150 keV. The molecular photoelectric absorption cross section is achieved from atomic cross section data. The molecular coherent (Rayleigh) and incoherent (Compton) scattering cross sections are estimated using relativistic modified form factor and incoherent scattering function approximation, respectively. The molecular form factors updated including molecular interference effects and incoherent scattering functions were also calculated. With the inclusion of the molecular interference effects in the coherent (Rayleigh) scattering, the more accurate data of radiation scattered from blood will be provided. The results are compared with references values in literature. It is found that the theoretical attenuation coefficients are in good agreement with experimental values.