A new cone beam X-ray microtomography facility for 3D analysis of multiphase materials

Three-dimensional x-ray microtomography offers a unique imaging capability. Spatial resolution on the order of ten microns can be achieved with the use of microfocus x-ray generators. Recently, a state-of-the-art, flexible cone beam x-ray microtomography system has been installed at the University of Utah for the quantl1ative analysis of multiphase materials in three dimensions. With the use of 2D cone beam projections rather than 1D slice projections the amount of wasted radiation is reduced. The custom designed facility has the capacity to obtain 2048 x 2048 pixel reconstruction over a 1 0-mm diameter, while also allowing for the imaging of somewhat larger (40-mm) objects. The system is capable of handling high-density materials, even materials having a density as high as 8.0 g/cm3. This unique, one-of-a-kind, instrument will be used to obtain three-dimensional spatial reconstruction for such applications as 3D-liberation analysis, structural examination of particle beds/porous structures, and the examination of air-void systems in concrete structures. The utilization of x-ray microtomography not only will allow for quantitative analysis of multiphase systems but also will allow for textural characterization and the determination of phase continuity. In this paper, we present information regarding the current use of this new facility and review potential applications for this advanced analytical system.