Target Features to Increase X-Ray Flux

A target for an x-ray tube can emit x-rays in response to impinging electrons. Some electrons rebound without interacting atomically to form x-rays. Problems of these non-interacting electrons include reduced x-ray flux, charging electrically-insulative components of the x-ray tube, and misdirecting the electron beam. The target can include an array of holes, an array of posts, or both. The holes/posts can increase electron interaction with material of the target. Consequently, a higher percentage of impinging electrons can form x-rays. The holes/posts can also allow the target to effectively generate x-rays of different energies by providing a target with multiple thicknesses. X-rays can be generated in thicker regions of the target with the x-ray tube operated at a larger voltage. X-rays can be generated in thinner regions of the target with the x-ray tube operated at a smaller voltage.