Yes, the analysis of the internal structure of porous materials-such as porous ceramics, filters, metal 3D-printed objects, activated carbon, and even geological samples-is a specialized application area for our Micro-CT systems.
The performance of a porous material is largely determined by the size, shape, distribution, and connectivity of its internal voids (pores). For example, the pore structure is directly related to the filtration performance of a filter, the ion mobility in battery materials, or the function of a biomaterial as a cell scaffold. While traditional methods like mercury intrusion porosimetry provide only average information, Micro-CT allows for the non-destructive visualization and quantification of these complex 3D network structures in their actual spatial configuration.
By applying our dedicated analysis software to the high-definition 3D data acquired with our CT systems, the following detailed analyses can be performed:
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Calculation of Porosity:
Determine the porosity, which is the ratio of void volume to the total volume, for the entire sample or any selected region of interest.
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Pore Distribution Evaluation:
Visualize the spatial distribution of pores as a 3D map to determine if they are uniformly distributed or localized in specific areas.
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Individual Pore Analysis:
Calculate the volume, surface area, and equivalent spherical diameter of each individual pore to create size distribution histograms.
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Connectivity Analysis:
Analyze how pores are interconnected as a network, providing crucial insights for predicting fluid permeability and the mechanical strength of the material.
Through these analyses, we provide powerful support for a deeper understanding of the correlation between material performance and internal structure, aiding in the development of higher-performance materials and the optimization of manufacturing processes.
For evaluating the cell structure of porous foams, a specialized foam analysis function is available as an option.
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