How long can PSP plates store an image?

• A. 12-24 hours
• B. 1-2 hours
• C. 48-72 hours
• D. 4-6 hours

Answer: (A)

PSP plates store the image as a latent signal trapped in the phosphor after exposure. That stored signal gradually fades as traps decay, so the image stays diagnostically usable only for a limited time. The typical window for maintaining enough image quality is about 12 to 24 hours, which is why that range is considered the correct choice. After longer delays, fading can degrade contrast and detail; shorter durations like 1–2 hours or 4–6 hours are too short to cover practical workflows, and 48–72 hours would allow too much fading for reliable interpretation.