Image fusion for neutron tomography of nuclear fuel

Abstract

Image fusion, the process of combining different images together, can be useful to create a more complete picture. In this work, image fusion is applied to neutron tomography of nuclear fuel with the goal of enhancing the information obtained about the fuel. Different reconstruction methods, such as Feldkamp, Davis and Kress filtered back projection and Simultaneous Reconstruction Technique, were combined to enhance image quality. This methodology was shown to reduce noise and ring artifacts without sacrificing sharp edges, allowing for a more accurate representation of sample geometry. Technique enhancements and future applications for the neutron imaging community are also discussed.

Improved image stitching method for neutron imaging of large object with small beam size

“…Thermal neutron radiography and CT offers advantages in objects that contain certain isotopes with high thermal neutron capture cross sections, thus providing large contrast variation; their disadvantage is the limited ability to penetrate thick objects. Lithium ion-batteries [6] and spent fuel rods [7] are two examples of materials that are good candidates for thermal neutron radiography that could require image stitching. Fast neutron attenuation tends to be higher with low Z materials, especially hydrogen, and generally decreases slowly with Z, allowing penetration of high-density, large objects that cannot easily be radiographed with X-rays.…”