Contact: Dr Lorna Sinclair – [email protected]
X-ray Computed Tomography (XCT) is an imaging technique which constructs a 3D image from 2D X-ray projections taken at different orientations, while a sample rotates. XCT is a non-destructive technique, used for high resolution inspection of samples to look at morphology, surface features, or internal features. Since the amount of X-ray absorption by a sample depends on the material density, samples containing multiple materials or layers can be segmented to separate out specific areas for analysis. XCT can also be used to assess materials for damage such as fractures or degradation, and can thus help with restoration and conservation of artefacts.
With a maximum sample size of ~30cm and a pixel resolution of 3 – 100µm XCT can be used for a wide range of sample shapes and sizes.
Capabilities: 3D morphology and composition, surface and internal features, cross-sectional analysis, creating 3D models.
Pros: Non-destructive, 3D data, no sample preparation is necessary, can probe internal features non-invasively, information on sample condition.
Cons: Sample size (equipment limited, and sample density limited), radiation damage can occur in biological samples.