Why are fluorescent screens seldom used in industrial radiography?

Fluorescent screens are seldom used in industrial radiography primarily due to their tendency to cause poor definition and screen mottle. These screens work by converting radiation into visible light, which can then expose the film. However, the light emitted can scatter within the screen or film emulsion, leading to a loss of sharpness and clarity in the image. This poor definition can mask important details necessary for assessing the integrity of materials, making it less effective for quality control or safety assessments in industrial applications.

In contrast to other methods such as using high-quality film or digital detectors, the image quality produced by fluorescent screens does not meet the precision standards required in industrial settings, where clear and precise radiographs are crucial. Therefore, while there may be considerations about costs, durability, or handling, the primary concern leading to their infrequent use is the impact on image quality, which can compromise the evaluation process in radiographic testing.