Neutron Radiography and Tomography: A New Approach to Visualize the Internal Structures of Pearls

Abstract

Non-destructive imaging of the internal structures of pearls has so far been mainly based on X-ray imaging methods. As organic matter is almost transparent to X-rays, the identification of some structures can be difficult. This study shows that neutron imaging can be a helpful complementary method to visualize structures inside pearls beyond standard X-ray radiography and tomography, as neutrons are highly attenuated by hydrogen-bearing (organic) matter within pearls. The use of neutron radiography and tomography is shown for selected natural and cultured pearls (beaded and non-beaded). In addition, we present neutron phase contrast and darkfield images of a beaded cultured pearl, in analogy to X-ray phase contrast and darkfield imaging described in a previous study. While neutron imaging of pearls is particularly useful for understanding material inhomogeneities and void structures, this methodology is currently only available at large-scale facilities that are equipped to deal with nuclear reactions.

In situcharacterization of lithium-metal anodes

“…due to the strong attenuation of hydrogencontaining organic matter. 132,133 In addition, NR/NT as a 2D/3D imaging technique overcomes the defect that NDP cannot display the lithium microstructure. 119,134 Therefore, in situ NR/NT technology facilitates the observation of the crystal structure evolution, electrode surface changes, and Li deposition mechanism and distribution during charge and discharge.…”