High sensitivity detectors in photoacoustic imaging: how close are we to the ultimate limits of NEP? (Conference Presentation)

Photoacoustic (PA) imaging provides detailed images of soft tissue but achieving multi-cm scale penetration depth is challenging as the signals encountered are extremely weak, necessitating highly-sensitive detectors. Unfortunately, due to a range of factors including the challenging nature of detector characterisation and incomplete reporting, it is difficult to effectively compare detectors and select the best one for achieving maximal penetration depth. This talk will address this by providing a rigorous review of the capabilities of PA detectors, demonstrate how the choice of detector critically impacts upon PA image depth and quality, and elucidate the ultimate limits of PA detection sensitivity.