Laboratory of microtomography

The X-ray Microtomography (μCT) Laboratory is built around a state-of-the-art μCT scanner nanotom® supplied by Phoenix|x-ray Systems + Services GmbH. The scanner enables sub-micrometer resolution with sample diameter below 20 mm. The maximum sample diameter is 120 mm. Reconstructions and visualisations are made using up to 32 GB datasets.

The maximum energy of the x-rays is 180 keV. Thus the set-up can be used to study and quantify the inner structure of a plethora of materials. Projects dealing with wood, mineral samples, soft condensed matter, fossils and bone, ceramic materials and components for electronics are routinely carried out. Given the novel and rapidly developing nature of μCT, the possibilities for collaboration are vast and exciting.

The measurement setup will be expanded to include other x-ray applications such as fluorescence, diffraction and scattering. For these purposes, a complementary system with a microfocus x-ray source (device IμS supplied by Incoatec GmbH) and dedicated detectors has been designed. The special design of the μCT scanner with a room-size shielded cabinet enables the use of the complementary system without removing the sample from the scanner.

μCT reconstruction of wood (Pinus sylvestris), voxel size 1.8 μm. Cell walls are shown in light green. Some remaining sap is shown in slightly darker green compared to the cell walls.

μCT reconstruction of jaw fragment of a moose (Alces alces alces), voxel size 37 μm. Jawbone, dentine and tooth enamel are clearly separable.

The head of a fly, reconstructed with 1.75 μm voxel size.
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