Images reveal "incredible" detail of industrial micro-CT scanner

Images of intricate biological structures and everyday items have revealed the capabilities of The University of Queensland’s (UQ) Yxlon FF35 micro-CT scanner.

UQ’s seven-tonne industrial micro-CT scanner can handle tiny samples — down to 1 mm, or as large as 400 mm — and offers “huge scope” for use in research across both industry and academia, according to Associate Professor Gary Cowin, National Imaging Facility Fellow at UQ’s Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology (AIBN).

Dr Gary Cowin and micro-CT scanner. Source: The University of Queensland

“The level of detail that can be achieved is incredible, from visualising the internal structure of a toothpick to mapping the tiny brains of insects,” Cowin said. “These images demonstrate the scientific and commercial potential of this technology.

“Agricultural researchers have used the micro-CT scanner to study root growth under different soil conditions,” Cowin explained; also saying that the technology supports disciplines as diverse as archaeology, biology, engineering and materials science.

“Materials scientists and engineers have used it to assess porosity and cracks in carbon fibre for advanced manufacturing and verify the accuracy of 3D-printed components,” Cowin added. “We’ve scanned everything from mining ore samples to praying mantis brains.”

Bauhinia flower white background. Source: The University of Queensland

Colour-enhanced scans of native flowers and the timber of a matchstick are among the more striking outputs — revealing hidden cellular structures in vivid detail. “Being able to zoom in at the micron level allows you to see patterns and textures that are both scientifically valuable and visually interesting,” Cowin said.

Cross section of a toothpick. Source: The University of Queensland

Inside a toothpick container. Source: The University of Queensland

Funded through contributions from the National Imaging Facility (NIF), in addition to researchers at UQ and elsewhere, the micro-CT scanner is accessible to commercial partners through the national facility.

“We can provide scanning services or train users to operate the system themselves, whether they’re developing new materials, investigating biological systems or need high-resolution imaging for quality control,” Cowin said. “The idea is for the technology to be as accessible as possible.”

Based at UQ’s AIBN, a range of research capabilities are said to be provided, including human imaging, pre-clinical MRI and molecular imaging, high-resolution MRI microscopy, industrial micro-CT imaging, NMR spectroscopy, EPR Spectroscopy, radio chemistry and a cyclotron for radioisotope production.

Companies and researchers interested in using the micro-CT scanner can contact the National Imaging Facility-Qld at AIBN.

Top image: Jacaranda flower black background. Source: The University of Queensland