Image plate response for conditions relevant to laser–plasma interaction experiments

We have measured the absolute response and detective quantum efficiency of image plates (IPs) for 5.9 keV x-rays using a calibrated iron-55 source. The types of IPs considered in this study are now commonly used as x-ray detectors in high-intensity laser–plasma interaction experiments, where conventional CCD fails because of the intense electromagnetic pulse that follows a high-intensity shot. Since the plates are not read out immediately after each laser shot, a detailed fading analysis of the plates is also presented. This work is important for future implementation of IPs as absolute x-ray photon detectors in large-scale laser facilities.