Applications of Computed Tomography (CT) to Characterize the Internal Structure of Gcomaterials: Limitations and Challenges

摘要

X-ray computed tomography is a powerful technique for non destructive evaluation of the internal structure (fabric) of geomaterials. Although valuable information can be learned from computed tomography images, several issues have to be considered when performing a quantitative analysis of CT data to avoid misinterpretation of the results. This paper presents some of the issues that can cause a change in CT numbers that is not caused by an actual variation in the density or attenuation of the scanned object. The geometry of the scanned object and the surrounding materials play an important role in the quality of computed tomography images. Artifacts like beam hardening and partial volume effects should be carefully evaluated, and, if possible, minimized to be able to perform a meaningful quantitative analysis of the CT data.