Micro-Computed Tomography
micro-Computed Tomography reconstructs 3D image and enable to visualise inside the object without destroying the structure.
A CT scan, also called X-ray computed tomography (X-ray CT) or computerized axial tomography scan (CAT scan), makes use of series of 2D X-ray images of an object taken from different angles (see left-hand image in figure below) to produce 3D cross-sectional (tomographic) images (virtual ‘slices’) of a scanned object (see right-hand image in figure below).
This 3D reconstruction from a CT scan allows the user to see inside the object without destroying the structure and produces contrast between different material types depending upon their relative composition and density.
A micro-CT scanner is specifically designed to study small objects (1 mm to 20 cm diameter) at high resolutions (1 to 70 micrometer).
A range of services are offered through the TrACEES platform, including:
- High resolution scans using a nanotom m micro-CT scanner
- Segmentation and quantitative data analysis
- Quality control, material assessment
- Method development for publication
- Visualisation and animation within objects
- Surface meshes for modelling and 3D printing
Examples of object types and analyses which can be conducted using this technique include:
- Biological samples: imaging soft tissue and skeletal structure of preserved animals; quantifying segmented structure volume and distances; plant root distribution in soil
- Geological samples: imaging mineralogical heterogeneity; grain size distribution, quantifying porosity and pore network analysis; simulated permeability; fossil structures
- Engineered samples: imaging composite materials; quantifying aggregate or particle distributions; imaging fractures and pores within manufactured objects; 500 Newton compressive-tensile stage testing
More information
- Contact person: Dr Jay Black, Academic specialist
- Access: find out more about accessing this equipment
- Location: School of Geography, Earth and Atmospheric Sciences, Building 200, The University of Melbourne, Victoria 3010