Using focused lasers to mill samples into appropriate geometries for use in 3D X-ray imaging

What is it about?

A novel way of making samples so that they can be successfully imaged with X-rays has been developed. This process involves using highly focused lasers to mill away excess material, to leave cylindrical samples ready to be placed in the X-ray beam. The X-ray procedure investigated is known as X-ray computed tomography and is the materials science equivalent of medical CT scanners found in most hospitals. The technique involves rotating the small pillar in the path between a laboratory X-ray source and a detector, producing a number of images, each similar to a classical bone scan. Using a sophisticated mathematical procedure, these images are reconstructed into a three-dimensional volume, giving information about the complex microstructure at the nanoscale. This has been applied to materials used for energy generation and a geological sample to illustrate the versatility and robustness of the preparation route.

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Why is it important?

Until now, there has been no clear published route to making appropriately sized and shaped samples for use in lab-based or synchrotron-based X-ray computer tomography facilities for obtaining high signal-to-noise data on a variety of samples.

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