1. A system for creating an image of an object, said system comprising: an X-ray source configured to emit an X-ray beam having a spectrum of X-ray radiation, said X-ray source configured to emit said beam along a fixed direction relative to said X-ray source; means for moving said X-ray source to cause said beam to move; a detector positioned to interpose said object between said detector and said X-ray source, said detector for receiving radiation and producing electrical current that is proportional to the intensity of the radiation received; a plurality of filters, each said filter comprising at least one chemical element having a K EDGE within said spectrum of said X-ray radiation; a means for mounting said plurality of filters on said X-ray source and for successively positioning each said filter into contact with said beam to filter said beam, said mounting means to cause said plurality of filters to move with said X-ray source; and a processor connected to said detector for producing an image of said object from said electrical current.