X-ray computed tomography

Philip J. Withers*, Charles Bouman, Simone Carmignato, Veerle Cnudde, David Grimaldi, Charlotte K. Hagen, Eric Maire, Marena Manley, Anton Du Plessis, Stuart R. Stock

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

490 Scopus citations

Abstract

X-ray computed tomography (CT) can reveal the internal details of objects in three dimensions non-destructively. In this Primer, we outline the basic principles of CT and describe the ways in which a CT scan can be acquired using X-ray tubes and synchrotron sources, including the different possible contrast modes that can be exploited. We explain the process of computationally reconstructing three-dimensional (3D) images from 2D radiographs and how to segment the 3D images for subsequent visualization and quantification. Whereas CT is widely used in medical and heavy industrial contexts at relatively low resolutions, here we focus on the application of higher resolution X-ray CT across science and engineering. We consider the application of X-ray CT to study subjects across the materials, metrology and manufacturing, engineering, food, biological, geological and palaeontological sciences. We examine how CT can be used to follow the structural evolution of materials in three dimensions in real time or in a time-lapse manner, for example to follow materials manufacturing or the in-service behaviour and degradation of manufactured components. Finally, we consider the potential for radiation damage and common sources of imaging artefacts, discuss reproducibility issues and consider future advances and opportunities.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Article number18
JournalNature Reviews Methods Primers
Volume1
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - Dec 2021

Funding

P.J.W. acknowledges funding from the European Research Council (ERC) under grant CORREL-CT No. 695638.

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'X-ray computed tomography'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this