An x-ray device is presented. The x-ray device includes a cathode configured to emit an electron beam. Also, the x-ray device includes an anode configured to rotate about a longitudinal axis of the x-ray device and positioned to receive the emitted electron beam, where the anode includes a target element disposed on an anode surface of the anode and a track element embedded in the target element, where the track element is configured to generate x-rays in response to the emitted electron beam impinging on a focal spot on the track element, where at least a portion of the track element is configured to transition from a first phase to a second phase based on heat generated in at least a portion of the track element, and where at least the portion of the track element is configured to distribute the generated heat across the anode.