Neutron tomography

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Neutron tomography is a form of computed tomography involving the production of three-dimensional images by the detection of the absorbance of neutrons produced by a neutron source.[1] It created a three-dimensional image of an object by combining multiple planar images with a known separation.[2] It has a resolution of around 200–500 μm.[3] Whilst its resolution is lower than that of X-ray tomography, it can be useful for specimens containing low contrast between the matrix and object of interest; for instance, fossils with a high carbon content, such as plants or vertebrate remains.[4]

Neutron tomography can have the unfortunate side-effect of leaving imaged samples radioactive if they contain appreciable levels of certain elements.[4]

See also[edit]


  1. ^ Grünauer, F.; Schillinger, B.; Steichele, E. (2004). "Optimization of the beam geometry for the cold neutron tomography facility at the new neutron source in Munich". Applied radiation and isotopes : including data, instrumentation and methods for use in agriculture, industry and medicine 61 (4): 479–485. doi:10.1016/j.apradiso.2004.03.073. PMID 15246387.  edit
  2. ^ McClellan Nuclear Radiation Center
  3. ^ "Neutron Tomography". Paul Scherrer Institut. 
  4. ^ a b Sutton, M. D. (2008). "Tomographic techniques for the study of exceptionally preserved fossils". Proceedings of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences 275 (1643): 1587–1593. doi:10.1098/rspb.2008.0263. PMC 2394564. PMID 18426749.  edit